Manchester City defender Rayan Ait-Nouri is reportedly holding discussions over a shock January move to rivals Manchester United.
Manchester City full-back Rayan Ait-Nouri is heading for the Etihad Stadium exit door and could make a rare cross-city transfer to Manchester United in January.
The 25-year-old Algerian international is a target for several clubs after struggling for Premier League minutes under manager Enzo Maresca during the current 2025/26 season.
Intermediaries are already holding discussions with a host of clubs to resolve the defender's future before the January transfer window opens, according to information published by FF2 Futebol.
Why Rayan Ait-Nouri is Leaving Manchester City
Manchester City are extremely well-stocked in all departments and currently harbour a number of players who are unlikely to establish themselves under the Premier League leaders.
Rayan Ait-Nouri joined City from Wolverhampton Wanderers in the summer of 2025 on a five-year contract, but he has played in less than half of the club's league matches this term.
His limited appearances have been restricted to the Carabao Cup and the Champions League, prompting sporting director Hugo Viana to work on an exit plan for the player.
Manchester United Enter Race for Full-Back
Manchester United are among the clubs targeting the 25-year-old defender, with the Red Devils having previously shown interest at the end of the last transfer window.
According to journalist Graeme Bailey, intermediaries are working to establish whether a permanent agreement can be reached in the New Year for the full-back.
Lines of communication between the clubs have reopened, and it is understood that the player would be open to a direct switch across Manchester in January.
Rare Cross-City Transfer History
If the deal proceeds, Rayan Ait-Nouri would become the first player to move directly from Manchester City to United since Owen Hargreaves made the switch back in 2011.
The defender has recently featured in cup competitions, playing the full 90 minutes against Norwich City and helping City knock Brighton & Hove Albion out of the Carabao Cup.
However, with no Premier League appearances under Enzo Maresca, a parting of ways is seen as the best next step for his promising professional career.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Rayan Ait-Nouri?
Rayan Ait-Nouri is a 25-year-old Algerian international left-back who joined Manchester City from Wolverhampton Wanderers in the summer of 2025 on a five-year contract.
Why is Rayan Ait-Nouri leaving Manchester City?
Ait-Nouri is leaving Manchester City due to a lack of Premier League playing time under manager Enzo Maresca, leading sporting director Hugo Viana to plan a January exit.
Could Rayan Ait-Nouri move to Manchester United?
Yes, reports indicate that intermediaries are holding discussions with Manchester United, and the player would be open to a rare cross-city transfer in January.
When was the last direct transfer between City and United?
The last direct transfer between the two Manchester clubs happened in 2011, when midfielder Owen Hargreaves moved from Manchester City to Manchester United.
