Manchester City have approached Wolverhampton Wanderers to discuss the possibility of signing Rayan Ait-Nouri this summer.
Pep Guardiola is prioritising the addition of a new left-back, with Ait-Nouri understood to be high on City’s list of targets.
The 23-year-old has impressed with his versatility and end-product, contributing four goals and seven assists in the Premier League this season.
With Josko Gvardiol set for a more central role next term, City are in the market for a natural left-sided defender.
Ait-Nouri offers flexibility, having featured at full-back, wing-back and as a left-sided centre-half for Wolves this season.
The Algeria international made 37 appearances in Wolves’ Premier League campaign, ranking among the top 3 percent of full-backs for successful take-ons per game.
No defender registered more goal involvements in the division.
City finished third in the Premier League this season and secured Champions League qualification with a final-day win at Fulham.
They are now looking to reshape the squad in preparation for a renewed title challenge.
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, City have formally asked Wolves about the conditions of a deal for Ait-Nouri. Further contact is expected as talks progress.
Ait-Nouri has two years left on his current deal, but Wolves could be tempted to sell amid wider squad changes.
Wolves are not expected to let Ait-Nouri go cheaply, but they have welcomed Hugo Bueno back from his loan at Feyenoord and may see him as a possible replacement.
Ait-Nouri has made over 130 Premier League appearances since joining Wolves from Angers in 2020. He featured in both games against Manchester City this season, giving Guardiola a close look at his qualities.
The defender’s attacking threat, defensive work rate and tactical intelligence have made him one of the most sought-after full-backs in the league.
City are also expected to oversee several departures this summer. They have lost Kevin De Bruyne, while Jack Grealish is among the players linked with a move away.
