Liverpool’s pursuit of their top defensive target may be disrupted by Manchester City.

Liverpool have maintained a long-standing interest in Rayan Ait-Nouri, but their pursuit of the Wolves left-back could face obstacles due to Manchester City’s interest in another high-profile defender.

According to Empire of the Kop, Ait-Nouri is Liverpool’s preferred option for strengthening their left-back position, with Manchester United also recently linked to the 23-year-old. Reports suggest that Liverpool had been monitoring him for months, and he is expected to be among Arne Slot’s summer transfer targets.

However, TeamTalk reports that Manchester City’s pursuit of AC Milan’s Theo Hernandez could complicate matters. If City secures Hernandez, Milan would then turn their attention to Ait-Nouri, as per Gazzetta dello Sport.

While Wolves’ asking price remains unclear, their potential relegation to the Championship could lower his valuation. Ait-Nouri’s attacking contributions—three goals and five assists in 26 Premier League appearances (per Transfermarkt)—highlight why he is attracting interest despite Wolves’ struggles.

Liverpool are unlikely to engage in a bidding war, given Fenway Sports Group’s transfer approach. If Ait-Nouri is available at a reasonable price and wants the move, Liverpool could proceed. Otherwise, they are expected to explore alternative options.