Manchester United‘s new boss Ruben Amorim has set his sights on Wolves defender Rayan Ait-Nouri.
The former Sporting Lisbon chief, who recently took over the reins at Old Trafford, was given a taste of the stark challenge ahead as his underwhelming United side drew 1-1 with relegation battlers Ipswich Town in his first game in charge.
Despite reports suggesting that Amorim will be working with a limited budget in January due to the Premier League‘s Profit and Sustainability Rules, it seems he’s still keen on targeting Ait-Nouri. The 23-year-old Algerian international has been one of the few shining lights for Wolves this season amid their difficult start, catching the attention of top-flight rivals.
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Amorim is prioritising strengthening the left-back position – where United have been lacking due to injuries to Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia – with Ait-Nouri being his top choice. Ait-Nouri, who has scored three goals and provided two assists this season, is open to leaving Molineux in 2025.
Liverpool have previously shown interest in the attacking wing-back, who has made over 100 top-flight appearances since joining Wolves. He is contracted with the club until summer 2026, reports the Mirror.
(Image: Getty Images)
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While it’s unclear whether United or Wolves would be willing to negotiate a mid-season deal for Ait-Nouri, he isn’t the only Premier League player on United’s radar as the winter transfer window approaches.
Last week, it was revealed Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite remains a target for United, despite having multiple bids rejected by the Toffees over the summer. Despite this, United haven’t been put off, with the young England defender yet to renew his contract at Goodison Park.
Branthwaite is viewed as a player who could excel in Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 formation, and United are considering making a move for him in January due to high demand from other clubs. However, the centre-back still has three years remaining on his current contract, putting Everton in a strong position.