Godwin ObajeManchester City Secure Rayan Aït-Nouri in €40m Deal: Wolves Eye Clement Bischoff as Successor
In a significant development in the summer transfer window, Manchester City have finalized a €40 million (£33.7 million) agreement to sign Wolverhampton Wanderers’ left wing-back Rayan Aït-Nouri. The 24-year-old Algerian international is set to undergo a medical on Saturday, marking City’s second major acquisition this summer following the £46.2 million signing of AC Milan midfielder Tijjani Reijnders.
Aït-Nouri’s Rise and Impact at Wolves
Aït-Nouri joined Wolves from Angers in 2021 after an initial loan spell. Over four seasons, he amassed 157 appearances, including 135 in the Premier League. The 2024/25 season was particularly noteworthy, with Aït-Nouri contributing four goals and seven assists in 37 league matches, showcasing his offensive prowess from the left flank.
His performances have not gone unnoticed, attracting interest from top European clubs, including Arsenal and AC Milan. However, Manchester City have acted decisively to secure his services, aiming to bolster their squad ahead of the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.
Financial Implications and Sell-On Clause
Wolves stand to make a substantial profit on Aït-Nouri, having initially paid £10 million for his services. However, Angers hold a 50% sell-on clause, which could significantly reduce Wolves’ net gain from the transfer. To mitigate this, Wolves have the option to buy out the clause for £9 million, a move they are likely to consider to maximize their financial return.
Wolves Target Clement Bischoff as Replacement
In the wake of Aït-Nouri’s departure, Wolves are actively seeking a replacement and have identified Brøndby’s Clement Bischoff as a prime candidate. The 19-year-old Danish left-back enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2024/25, making 40 senior appearances and contributing two goals and ten assists.
Bischoff’s versatility is a significant asset; he is capable of playing as an attacking midfielder, left winger, right winger, or center-forward. His attacking mindset aligns well with Wolves’ tactical approach under manager Vitor Pereira.
Previously, Brighton & Hove Albion had agreed on a £7 million deal for Bischoff in February, but the transfer fell through. The player has expressed his desire to move abroad, stating, “I have a plan and I’m working every day to make this move abroad. This was a really good opportunity for me (to join Brighton), but it is what it is. If I keep doing it right, I know the opportunity will come again.”
Looking Ahead
As Manchester City prepare to integrate Aït-Nouri into their squad, Wolves are poised to reinvest in emerging talent, with Bischoff at the forefront of their plans. The success of these moves will be pivotal in shaping both clubs’ fortunes in the upcoming season.
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