Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly keen on signing Rayan Ait-Nouri, but the 20-year-old is likelier to join PSG.
According to a report by Catalan outlet El Nacional, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain are waging a battle for the services of Rayan Ait-Nouri. However, the 20-year-old Wolves defender is expected to favour a move to PSG following Barcelona’s ouster from the UEFA Champions League.
Since arriving at Wolverhampton Wanderers from SCO Angers, Rayan Ait-Nouri has made significant progress. Initially signed on a loan deal in October 2020, the youngster permanently joined the Premier League in the summer transfer window this year. And in this period, he has established as the first-choice left wing-back for the Black Country outfit.
To date, the 20-year-old has made 34 appearances for Wolves, chipping in with one goal and three assists in the process. The player’s progress has not gone unnoticed, with some of the biggest clubs in the world, including Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, setting their sights on him.
The interest from Barcelona is understandable amid the falling performance levels of Jordi Alba. While Alejandro Balde is viewed as one for the future, the young defender is yet to completely settle into the environs of the first-team setup at Camp Nou. As a result, the Catalan giants have recently been linked with several left-backs, including academy product Alejandro Grimaldo.
Ait-Nouri is also a viable target for Barcelona, considering he can be moulded in Xavi’s image. However, the 20-year-old is set to rebuff the opportunity to join the Blaugrana following their ouster from the UEFA Champions League. Instead, a move to PSG appears to be on the horizon for him.
But the interest from PSG does not make much sense unless they decide not to sign Nuno Mendes permanently. Interestingly, the Ligue 1 heavyweights have also been linked with Barcelona left-back Jordi Alba in recent weeks, which suggests they are serious about bolstering the left side of their defence.
In addition to Barcelona and PSG, Crystal Palace and Newcastle United have also shown an interest in Ait-Nouri. However, with two of the most recognised clubs in Europe keen on signing him, neither Premier League outfit is likely to land him. Instead, a move to PSG seems to be on the cards for the 20-year-old, with Barcelona set to be forced to turn their attention elsewhere.