Why Manchester United did not sign Rayan Ait-Nouri on Deadline Day
Manchester United have declined the opportunity to sign Rayan Ait-Nouri from Manchester City on Deadline Day.
Michael Carrick’s side has had a quiet close to the transfer window, despite the squad still appearing thin. Defensive depth is at a premium, with left-back a particular area of concern.
Luke Shaw impressed last season and did well to stay fit for the majority of the campaign, but the 31-year-old will compete on four fronts this season with 19-year-old Harry Amass his only natural deputy.
As such, it seemed a convenient opportunity to add depth and quality when Ait-Nouri’s agent offered the player to United this week.
The Algerian full-back, 25, joined City in 2025 but has struggled to impress himself on the first team, and appears to be in search of improved first-team minutes after he was knocked down the pecking order by the emergence of Nico O’Reilly. He has been left on the bench in City’s first two matches of the Premier League season.
At surface level, it seemed a move might suit all parties, but it broke down due to City’s conditions of sale.
understands United contacted City to discuss a move on Tuesday afternoon and enquired after a potential loan.
City, however, were only interested in letting Ait-Nouri leave on loan with an obligation to buy. United sources say there was no interest in a permanent move and walked away.
It is not the only last-gasp deal United looked into on Deadline Day. They also moved to sign Leicester youngster Louis Page, but took their business elsewhere after failing to agree a fee with the Foxes.
There may be more Deadline Day business to handle as Joshua Zirkzee searches for a new home, though Everton appear to have failed in a late approach to sign the Dutchman.