Manchester United made a shock approach to sign left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri from rivals Manchester City before the transfer deadline.
United checked with City on whether they could sign the defender on loan, following an approach from the Algeria international’s representatives last week.
It is understood, however, that United were informed that a loan would only be possible with an obligation to buy, which United were not interested in.
The focus of United’s summer has been on strengthening Michael Carrick’s midfield, with deals for Carlos Baleba, Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos.
But left back was an area of concern ahead of the deadline with United lacking established options beyond former England international Luke Shaw.
Meanwhile, United have turned down a late offer from Everton to sign forward Joshua Zirkzee on loan.
United also halted their deadline-day pursuit of 18-year-old Louis Page having been unable to agree terms with Leicester City.
