Rayan Ait-Nouri enquiry made by Manchester United

Manchester United have made a tentative enquiry over a surprise deadline-day move for Manchester City left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri.

According to Sam C, reporting via X, United have made contact over a potential late deal for the defender.

The report adds that it remains unclear at this stage whether talks will progress before the transfer window closes.

Ait-Nouri would represent a dramatic late solution to United’s left-back situation, with the club continuing to explore options in the final hours of deadline day.

Left-back has been one of the main positions discussed throughout the summer, with supporters calling for more depth behind Luke Shaw.

Shaw remains the most established senior option on the left side of defence, while Patrick Dorgu has increasingly been viewed as a more attacking player under Michael Carrick.

United have therefore been linked with several players in the position, including Lewis Hall, Alejandro Balde and Myles Lewis-Skelly.

Fabrizio Romano also claimed in the final days of the window that he could “guarantee” United were still working on a left-back solution.

Until now, though, there had been very little indication that a deal of this profile could emerge so late.

A move for Ait-Nouri would be particularly eye-catching given the rivalry between Manchester United and Manchester City.

The Algeria international is known for his ability to carry the ball forward, beat opponents and contribute high up the pitch, while also offering experience in the Premier League.

With the deadline rapidly approaching, however, there would be very little time for negotiations to develop into a full agreement.

At this stage, the enquiry appears exploratory rather than advanced.