According to a report by Sky Sports on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Manchester United have received a fresh opportunity to sign Manchester City defender Rayan Ait Nouri, with reports suggesting that efforts are underway to secure his departure from the Etihad Stadium during the January transfer window.

The 25 year old left back has struggled to establish himself at Manchester City since completing a move from Wolverhampton Wanderers in the summer of 2025 for approximately £31 million.

Ait Nouri arrived at the Etihad Stadium with an impressive reputation following his performances at Wolves. However, he has found regular first team opportunities difficult to secure and has made limited appearances under manager Pep Guardiola since the beginning of last season.

His uncertain future has attracted interest from Manchester United, who previously considered signing him towards the end of the summer transfer window as part of their efforts to strengthen the left-back position.

United have continued monitoring the Algeria international ahead of January, with German journalist Florian Plettenberg recently reporting that the defender is open to leaving City.

Plettenberg also indicated that United are interested in signing Ait Nouri and that agreeing personal terms would probably not present a major obstacle. However, negotiations could become complicated because of the intense rivalry between the two Manchester clubs, with City potentially unwilling to strengthen their neighbours.

United are reportedly prioritising the recruitment of a new left back, with Ait Nouri and Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde among their preferred options. The City defender could also represent a more affordable alternative to Balde.

Further information about Ait Nouri's situation has emerged through journalist Nabil Djellit, who believes the defender needs a fresh start after failing to establish himself at the Etihad Stadium.

Speaking to L'Equipe, as reported by Sport Witness, Djellit suggested that leaving City could be the most realistic solution unless the player's circumstances improve significantly.

"Unless there is a dramatic turnaround at City, the only way out is to leave for a more favourable environment. Because until then, there remains a bitter feeling that this story never really began," he said.

Djellit also revealed that efforts are being made to arrange a winter departure.

"Everything is being done to try and leave this winter," he added.

He further maintained that Ait-Nouri remains highly regarded in England and abroad but needs a club where he can regularly demonstrate his abilities.

"He can't stay in this situation where his talent is being wasted," Djellit said.

With United searching for defensive reinforcements and Ait Nouri reportedly keen to secure regular playing time, a January move could become a possibility. However, Manchester City's willingness to negotiate with their local rivals remains a major factor.