Manchester United are said to be back in talks regarding a potential January move for Manchester City left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri after struggling to find consistent game time.

According to a report by FootballTransfers on Thursday, October 29, 2026, the Red Devils are looking to strike a deal to bring the Algeria international to Old Trafford again after being linked with a move to the club in the final hours of the summer transfer window. Intermediaries are currently attempting to come to an agreement.

Ait-Nouri moved to Manchester City from Wolverhampton Wanderers last summer but has failed to make an impact in the first team under Enzo Maresca. The 25-year-old has not appeared in the Premier League this season and has only played 138 minutes in all competitions.

With the Etihad currently having Josko Gvardiol and Nico O'Reilly fighting for the left-back role, Ait-Nouri has had little chance to prove his worth. This has led to uncertainty regarding his future.

Manchester United are keen to beef up their left-back role to create competition for Luke Shaw and Ait-Nouri is said to be willing to move to the club during the January transfer window.

Ait-Nouri has an approximate price tag of €49 million but City are said to be open to a loan deal; however, with an obligation to buy if conditions are met.

It would also mark a major landmark for the defender as he would become the first City player to move directly to Manchester United since Owen Hargreaves in 2011.

Everton are also interested in the defender but have limited options due to Jack Grealish being on loan from Manchester City.

Manchester United will need to see if they can come to an agreement with their rivals to strengthen their defence ahead of the second half of the season.