Manchester United have been touted as the most likely to sign Inter Milan centre back Alessandro Bastoni.
The Lowdown: Centre back a United priority
Erik Ten Hag has reportedly made centre back an area of priority for Manchester United, following what has been a terrible season for the Red Devils.
The Dutchman, who left his role at Ajax slightly earlier than planned, is clearly wasting no time in the transfer market, and naturally United are being linked with every player under the sun.
However, with Bastoni his interest could materialise into an actual move for the Italy international, with plenty of Premier League clubs breathing down their neck.
The Latest: Premier League shows an interest
Tottenham, Manchester City and Manchester United are all clubs that are linked with the player, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
It is claimed that Conte will understand the quality of Bastoni due to their time together at Inter, and that he is “destined to become one of the best in the world in the role”.
Despite Conte’s reported interest, United are named as the most “credible” option to make a move for Bastoni.
The Verdict: The signing makes sense
Bastoni was instrumental in Conte’s title-winning Inter Milan side and would bring a winning mentality to a United dressing room in turmoil.
His ability with the ball at his feet is remarkable for a defender, with 4.56 progressive carries and 3.78 progressive passes per 90. This makes him an ideal Ten Hag defender, as his Ajax sides have always enjoyed playing out from the back
Bastoni’s agent sparked controversy in 2021 when he likened his player to the great Paolo Maldini, stating “I have never seen anyone his age play with his naturalness”.
Meanwhile, Serie A expert Conor Clancy believes the Inter Milan colossus is a “phenomenon” and that he could be the “next generation of Italian defence himself,” as relayed to Football FanCast.
With his ceiling supposedly so high, it makes sense that United should invest in the £54m-rated colossus sooner rather than later to improve their leaky defence.
Manchester United are also reportedly chasing another centre back. Find out who here.