Man United make surprising move for Man City star after latest Deadline Day setback
Manchester United have made a last-minute call about a Manchester City player after their latest transfer setback. With just over an hour left in the 2026/27 summer transfer window, things are still moving fast.
Many Premier League teams have been busy signing players today, but United have been quiet, with no new arrivals despite plenty of rumors. This summer, United have strengthened their midfield by signing Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos, and Carlos Baleba for a total of £155 million, plus Karl Darlow on a free transfer.
Still, many fans feel this isn’t enough, especially with worries about the left-back spot. Luke Shaw played every Premier League game last season but has had injury problems, so fans hoped United might bring in someone like Newcastle’s Lewis Hall.
Before Deadline Day, no new left-back had joined, although there were talks about loan deals. Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde was one option, but he didn’t play in their recent 5-2 win, and now a deal for him is off the table.
United also looked into signing Jorge Salinas from Racing Santander, who has a €16 million release clause. Atletico Madrid is interested in him too, but his club expects he’ll stay this summer.
With all these issues, United seem to be considering bolder moves. talkSPORT says they have made a surprising enquiry about Rayan Ait-Nouri, a 25-year-old left-back who now plays for Manchester City. His agent offered him to United a few days ago, and in the last few hours, United have talked with City about how a deal could work.
However, City would only agree to a loan with an obligation to buy, which United don’t want since they prefer not to commit to a permanent deal right now. Ait-Nouri joined City from Wolves last summer and played 12 Premier League games before losing his spot to Nico O’Reilly.
With time running out, it looks like United are scrambling to find the right solution before the window closes.