Manchester United handed boost in pursuit of Manchester City defender Rayan Ait-Nouri

Manchester United have been encouraged in their efforts to sign Manchester City left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri, who has struggled for regular playing time this season under Italian manager Enzo Maresca.

The 25-year-old was considered a target for United during the previous summer transfer window as the club looked to strengthen at left-back.

United also explored moves for Newcastle player Lewis Hall and Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde, but manager Michael Carrick was not given a new signing in the position and has been forced to rely on Luke Shaw as his only first-team option.

The Red Devils were interested in Ait-Nouri, but Manchester City rejected a loan proposal for the Algeria international on the final day of the transfer window. However, United could renew their interest in January as the possibility of the player leaving City increases, according to The Sun.

Ait-Nouri seeks regular football

Ait-Nouri has made only four appearances this season and has not played in the Premier League. His lack of involvement comes despite his desire for more minutes, having featured in only 17 Premier League matches under Pep Guardiola last season.

Manchester City have been reluctant to allow the defender to move to their rivals, while the player is also attracting interest from Italian club Juventus.

The report says Ait-Nouri could leave Manchester City during the upcoming winter transfer window after his representatives asked the club to find a solution to his current situation.

“We have to find the best solution with Manchester City. He cannot remain in a situation where his talent is being wasted,” the player’s representatives said.

Ait-Nouri has played two matches in the Carabao Cup and Champions League this season, registering three assists in just 168 minutes on the pitch.