‘Genuine and active’: Journo confirms talks between Man Utd and City for ‘technically excellent’ star | OneFootball

Manchester United did indeed strike up a late pursuit of Manchester City’s Rayan Ait-Nouri on deadline day this week.

However, a deal failed to materialise due to United only wanting a stop-gap loan agreement, whereas City wanted to include a buy obligation in any potential terms.

United and Rayan Ait-Nouri: What happened?

(Photo via Sam C Reports on X/Twitter)

As per Ben Jacobs (via The United Stand), talks were ‘genuine and active’ up until around 4pm on Tuesday, when the Red Devils called off negotiations.

Ait-Nouri gave no indication as to whether he’d be open to making the move, as he is continuing to navigate a reduced role at the Etihad Stadium.

Last season, the 25-year-old, hailed as ‘technically excellent’ by Sky Sports, was limited to only 12 Premier League starts in total, and was an unused substitute for nine matches.

The promotion of Nico O’Reilly, as well as the youngster’s outstanding form, has demoted Ait-Nouri in the pecking order, which is likely to continue under Enzo Maresca, given he’s sat on the bench for City’s opening two fixtures of the term.

INEOS failed to bolster Michael Carrick’s backline

Yet, United ultimately opted against bringing in any full-back – much to fans’ dismay.

It means the only out-and-out left-back in Michael Carrick’s ranks is Luke Shaw, who’s been United’s most injury-prone player of the last decade.

Jacobs adds that the club are expected to go all-out in their pursuit of first-choice target Lewis Hall in the summer of 2027, after Newcastle United deemed him untouchable throughout the window.

Even if Hall ends up signing an extension at St. James’ Park, United will be looking to make him their marquee defensive signing regardless of when his contract expires.