Man Utd turn attentions to Wolves star for January move after struggling to meet PSG's asking price for Nuno Mendes

Manchester United have reportedly targeted Wolves left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri for a January move as Nuno Mendes is too expensive.

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Man Utd want to strengthen left-back positionMendes has been pursuedAit-Nouri is preferred for his versatilityFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

The left-back position has proven to be a weak link for United during the 2024-25 season. Players like Diogo Dalot, Noussair Mazraoui, and Tyrell Malacia have struggled for consistency, forcing Ruben Amorim to demand reinforcements from the management. Although Luke Shaw is on the verge of returning from another muscular injury, his recurring fitness issues have left the club in urgent need of a reliable alternative.

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According to Paris Saint-Germain’s Mendes has emerged as United's top priority due to his prior working experience with Amorim. However, the financial aspects of the deal have become a major stumbling block. PSG’s valuation of the player at €60 million, coupled with his significant wage demands, has placed the transfer out of reach for the Red Devils. The situation has left United needing to offload players to generate funds for Mendes, but PSG are also reportedly keen to retain the Portuguese international. Consequently, United’s attention has shifted to more attainable options.

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Ait-Nouri has been a standout performer for Wolves and has also showcased his versatility, excelling as both a traditional left-back and a more advanced wing-back. His ability to adapt to different tactical setups has reportedly caught the eye of Amorim, who values such flexibility. The Algerian international has scored four goals and provided five assists across 22 appearances in all competitions this season, with three goals and five assists in the Premier League.

Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR MANCHESTER UNITED?

United’s pursuit of Ait-Nouri could materialize in January, but much depends on the future of Tyrell Malacia. The Dutch defender has struggled to make an impact at Old Trafford and is reportedly attracting interest from Juventus and Borussia Dortmund. A move for Malacia could create the financial and squad space needed to bring in Ait-Nouri. The Algerian's contract is set to expire next summer, but the club holds an option to extend it by another year, effectively tying him down until the end of the 2026-27 season.

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