Barcelona keeping close tabs on Manchester City defender who could leave in January – report

Barcelona keeping close tabs on Manchester City defender who could leave in January – reportBarcelona are reportedly keeping tabs on Manchester City left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri in the wake of their need to add reinforcements during the January transfer window. According to SPORT, the Algeria international has emerged as an option for the Catalan club amid uncertainty surrounding Alejandro Balde’s future at the Spotify Camp Nou.Just like Balde, Ait-Nouri, 25, has struggled to establish himself under new manager Enzo Maresca this season, with competition from Josko Gvardiol and Nico O’Reilly limiting his opportunities. In fact, he has yet to make a Premier League appearance in the 2026/27 campaign, and reports suggest he could consider leaving Manchester City to secure regular first-team football.Ait-Nouri fits Barcelona’s attacking left-back profileBarcelona’s interest is understandable given the qualities Ait-Nouri offers going forward. Barcelona are monitoring Rayan Ait-Nouri’s situation ahead of January transfer window. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)The former Wolverhampton Wanderers defender is comfortable carrying the ball into advanced positions, combining with teammates in tight spaces and creating opportunities through his movement and attacking runs.His performances at Wolves established him as one of the Premier League’s more attack-minded full-backs, after which Manchester City signed him on a five-year contract in 2025.As for Barcelona, the same report mentions that their sporting department had monitored him before his move to the Etihad Stadium, and his current situation could therefore offer the club another opportunity to revisit a previously considered target.Manchester City’s transfer conditions complicate a dealFor now, the financial structure of a potential move remains a significant obstacle. Manchester City are reportedly open to a loan arrangement but want an obligation to buy included for the summer. Rayan Ait-Nouri could leave Manchester City. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)That condition alone could prove difficult for Barcelona, who are attempting to manage their finances while retaining flexibility for future recruitment.Balde’s future could influence Barcelona’s decisionAit-Nouri’s availability could become more relevant if Barcelona decide to part ways with Balde. The academy graduate has attracted interest from other European clubs, and his possible departure would leave Flick needing an established option at left-back.As far as Ait-Nouri is concerned, the likes of Manchester United and Juventus have also been linked with Ait-Nouri, meaning Barcelona could face competition if they decide to pursue the defender.