Manchester United plan to hand Luke Shaw a new deal while being linked with a new left-back ahead of January, with Rayan Ait-Nouri’s situation being assessed.

Manchester United plan to offer Luke Shaw a new contract while assessing a move for Rayan Ait-Nouri ahead of January, according to TEAMtalk. The experienced left-back’s current deal expires at the end of the season, and the Red Devils view him as central to their plans moving forward.

Luke Shaw has been a reliable performer for Manchester United since his £27 million move from Southampton in the summer of 2014. Staying at the same club for more than 12 years is a testament to his professionalism, although the left-back has missed large periods in the past due to persistent injury problems.

Last season, Shaw played in all 38 league matches, his best appearance record in years. However, he has suffered a fresh issue this term, having missed the draw with Leeds United and the midweek Champions League defeat to Como, and he was again unavailable for the home clash against Bournemouth.

Manchester United were eager to sign a new left-back during the summer amid links with several players, but no left-back arrived despite reported approaches. Ahead of the January transfer window, they are expected to continue their search for defensive cover, with the possibility of a player from a rival club becoming available.

What next for Luke Shaw?

Manchester United are not considering letting Shaw leave in the near future and had reportedly planned to offer him a new contract in recent weeks. The report strongly claims that the Red Devils are now prepared to offer the Englishman a new deal, given that his current agreement expires at the end of the season.

Manchester United are optimistic about the new deal and view Shaw as a key part of their plans moving forward. This decision is not expected to stop their search for defensive cover, as a player from a rival club could become the subject of interest.

That player is Rayan Ait-Nouri, with the Red Devils reportedly showing interest in the Algerian late in the summer transfer window as well. United believe that adding another specialist left-back would provide valuable competition and cover for Shaw.

Can Manchester United sign Rayan Ait-Nouri?

Despite late interest in the Algerian international, Manchester United reportedly never had a realistic chance of signing the Manchester City star this summer. However, after a difficult start to the season under Enzo Maresca, speculation is growing around Ait-Nouri and a possible January exit, even if only on loan.

With the Algerian yet to play a single minute in the Premier League and barely featuring in the Champions League, he could consider his future at the club. Manchester United could move for Ait-Nouri in January if his situation at Manchester City improves.