Manchester United could reportedly move for Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Rayan Ait-Nouri before the end of the month, with Red Devils head coach Ruben Amorim determined to sign the Morocco international.
The left-sided wing-back role remains a problematic position for Man United, with Diogo Dalot, Noussair Mazraoui and Tyrell Malacia all looking unconvincing in that area during the 2024-25 campaign.
Luke Shaw is close to returning to fitness following another muscular problem, but the Englishman's ongoing injury issues are concerning, and Man United are set to sign a new left-sided defender in either January or at the end of the campaign.
Paris Saint-Germain's Nuno Mendes continues to be linked with a move to Old Trafford, but according to Caught Offside, Ait-Nouri is Amorim's first-choice player in that area of the field.
The report claims that a January move for the 23-year-old would be possible if Malacia moves on, with Juventus and Borussia Dortmund both thought to be considering a deal for the Netherlands international.
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Amorim 'wants to bring Ait-Nouri to Man United'
Malacia has only made six appearances this season, with the Dutchman missing the opening months of the season with a serious knee injury which kept him out for almost 18 months in total.
The 25-year-old has found it difficult to make his mark, though, and an exit before the end of the month is seen as possible, should Man United identify a replacement.
Ait-Nouri has been a star performer for relegation-threatened Wolves this season, scoring four goals and registering five assists in 22 appearances in all competitions, including three goals and five assists in the Premier League.
The Moroccan has proved his capabilities as a left-sided wing-back this term and is a specialist in that position, while the fact that he is established in the Premier League will make him even more attractive for Man United.
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Could a move for Ait-Nouri happen in January?
Wolves are battling relegation, so it is incredibly unlikely that Ait-Nouri would be allowed to leave in the middle of the campaign unless a substantial offer arrives for his services.
The defender's contract is due to expire next summer, but Wolves crucially have the option to activate an additional 12 months in his deal to take him to the end of the 2026-27 campaign.
Man United could move three or four players on before the end of the January window, though, with Marcus Rashford, Casemiro, Antony and Malacia among those being linked with exits.
Departures would open the door for Man United to boost their squad before the winter market closes, although the Red Devils may have to wait until this summer's transfer window to sign a player of Ait-Nouri's ilk.
Matt Law
