The winter transfer window is heating up, and it looks like Manchester could be the epicenter of some major drama. Algerian international Rayan Aït-Nouri is apparently at the heart of it all, with whispers of a significant move circulating.
Since arriving at the Etihad, the 25-year-old left-back hasn’t been getting the game time he’d probably hoped for. With a crowded defensive lineup, it seems Aït-Nouri might be looking for a new club come January to get more regular minutes, especially with the latter half of the season on the horizon.
Manchester United, on the other hand, have apparently zeroed in on him as a key player to bolster their left flank. Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg has reported that Aït-Nouri is a name to follow this winter, noting he’s open to leaving Manchester City and that United are keen to sign him. The good news for United, it seems, is that personal terms wouldn’t be a hurdle.
His representatives are reportedly open to the idea, which means if the clubs can agree on a transfer fee, sorting out the player’s contract could be straightforward. So, the player is willing, United wants him, but the big question mark hanging over all of this is the relationship between the two Manchester clubs.
Direct transfers between Manchester City and Manchester United are not common, and they tend to be quite sensitive. While City is reportedly looking at other European options for Aït-Nouri, ultimately, whether the City hierarchy approves a move directly to Old Trafford might just be the defining moment of this January transfer window.
