According to a report by Sky Sports on November 4, 2026, Manchester United have been handed a fresh opportunity to sign Manchester City defender Rayan Ait-Nouri, with everything reportedly being done to secure his departure during the January transfer window.

The 25-year-old left-back has struggled to establish himself at the Etihad Stadium since joining City from Wolverhampton Wanderers in the summer of 2025 for a fee of around £31 million.

Despite arriving with a strong reputation following his performances at Wolves, Ait-Nouri has seen his opportunities limited and has barely featured for Pep Guardiola's side since the beginning of last season.

His uncertain situation has attracted interest from United, who considered a move for him towards the end of the previous summer transfer window as they looked to strengthen their left-back position.

The Red Devils have continued monitoring his situation ahead of January, with German journalist Florian Plettenberg recently reporting that the defender is open to leaving City.

Plettenberg also revealed that United would like to sign the Algeria international and that personal terms are unlikely to be a problem. However, the biggest obstacle remains the rivalry between the two Manchester clubs, with City potentially reluctant to sell one of their players to their neighbours.

United are understood to be prioritising the signing of a new left-back ahead of the winter transfer window, with Ait-Nouri and Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde among the players being considered.

The City defender could represent a cheaper option compared to Balde, making him an attractive target as United assess their available choices.

Further details about Ait-Nouri's situation have now emerged through journalist Nabil Djellit, who believes the defender's future at City is increasingly uncertain.

Speaking to L'Equipe, as reported by Sport Witness, Djellit explained that the player needs a fresh environment after struggling to make an impact at the Etihad Stadium.

He said: "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."

Djellit also suggested that Ait-Nouri and his representatives are actively working towards securing a January departure.

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

He further explained that the defender remains highly regarded in England and elsewhere, but a suitable agreement must be reached with Manchester City.

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

Although United's interest is clear, negotiations could prove complicated because of the longstanding rivalry between the clubs. Nevertheless, Ait-Nouri's desire for regular football and United's need for a left-back could create an opportunity for a January transfer.