Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim appears to be determined to sign Wolverhampton Wanderers left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri.
Back in late October, The Peoples Person discussed Man United’s alleged interest in the Algerian left-back, who has proven to be a key player for Wolves this season.
Although talk of Ait-Nouri’s potential move to Old Trafford has since quietened down, it was reignited this morning, with Amorim believed to be viewing the Wolves full-back as a priority signing.
“With Luke Shaw’s injury record curtailing his career at Old Trafford, sources have indicated to CaughtOffside that Amorim wants to bring in Wolves’ Rayan Ait-Nouri as his first choice left-back,” CaughtOffside reported.
The article added that Tyrell Malacia’s days at United may be coming to an end.
“It does appear that the injury prone and therefore unreliable Tyrell Malacia will also be allowed to move on before the end of the month. According to CaughtOffside sources close to Man United, Juventus have made enquiries about the 25-year-old who missed all of last season following knee surgery.”
“The Italian football giants are looking to loan the player until the end of the season and then make the move permanent in the summer. Importantly, sources have also advanced that the Bianconeri are ready to cover the bulk of Malacia’s £75,000-a-week salary,” the report concluded.
For Amorim, it makes sense to prioritise the purchase of a left-back during the January transfer window, given United’s lack of options.
Luke Shaw, whose career has been massively hindered by injuries, is currently sidelined with a calf, shin, and heel setback.
Given that United’s first-choice left-back has been largely unavailable in recent times, Amorim decided to give Malacia, who recently returned from a long absence himself, an opportunity to prove himself as a wing-back.
Unfortunately, he has largely disappointed, proving ineffective both in defence and on the attack.
In contrast, Ait-Nouri has been in fine form for the struggling Wolves, making 2.4 tackles per game and 4.7 ball recoveries. He also has an 86% passing accuracy in the Premier League.
While the Algerian has produced a fine defensive performance and proven his passing ability, he has been most impressive on the attack. With five assists and four big chances created, Ait-Nouri has shown that he has an ideal profile for the wing-back position in Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 formation. (Stats via Sofascore)
Given that Malacia is the only natural left-back apart from the injured Shaw, Ait-Nouri’s transfer this January appears to be vital, especially given his fine recent form.
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Mathew Cohen
A faithful Manchester United supporter, Mathew has worked as a football writer and analyst for SB Nation, FanSided, and now The Peoples Person. Mathew’s heroes include David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Sir Alex Ferguson, all of whom played their part in creating some special childhood memories.
