Latest developments
- Manchester United are looking to sign Rayan Ait-Nouri.
- The Red Devils have also shown interest in Nuno Mendes.
- Ruben Amorim is in desperate need of a new left-back.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3.5/5): United switch left-back target
Manchester United have switched their focus on signing Rayan Ait-Nouri from Wolverhampton Wanderers after facing a stumbling block in their pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain's Nuno Mendes.
The very reputed Independent are shining the light on the Red Devils' left-back search and have now linked them with the Algerian star.
Value (3/5): United can't afford a big fee
It is understood that Mendes is United's top choice for the left wing-back role, owing to his shared past with Ruben Amorim at Sporting Lisbon. However, the Mancunians are struggling to match his price tag, reported to be worth £50.7million.
Accordingly, they are eyeing a move for Ait-Nouri, who is valued at around £30million by Transfermarkt. With his contract expiring in the summer of 2026, a fee in a similar region could make Wolves think twice.
Suitability (4/5): Can play as a wing-back
The 23-year-old Algerian, who likes to operate in the final third, is capable of playing as a left wing-back too. It is understood that Amorim appreciates this flexibility, especially since wing-backs are a key part of his 3-4-3 system. It is suggested that the Portuguese also likes the player's movement.
Upgrade? (4/5): Much better than what Amorim is dealing with
With Luke Shaw regularly out of the picture due to fitness issues, Amorim doesn't have a single left-back of sufficient Premier League quality, let alone a left wing-back, at his disposal. He has been forced to rely on right-back Diogo Dalot, who is unsuited to that area.
Should United manage to lure him to Old Trafford, Ait-Nouri would almost certainly be a significant upgrade from the get-go.
Logic (4/5): Take the next step
Having impressed with his creativity at Molineux over the last three seasons, the Algeria international is now ready to take the next step and show his passing range and attacking instincts at the highest level. The Theatre of Dreams could provide him with an ideal stage to do just that under a manager who thrives on fielding wing-backs.
Whisper+ verdict: 18.5/25
Reliable source information and a top talent tailor-made for Amorim's system at United, but a lot could depend on Wolves' stance and their asking price.
