Manchester United have identified Inter Milan midfielder Nicola Barella as their primary target to spearhead a midfield transformation this summer. The Italy international is valued at £61m as the Red Devils prepare major squad changes with Casemiro departing. According to Football365.com.
Man Utd prioritise £61m Barella signing to complement Mainoo partnership
Reports in Spain reveal that Barella has emerged as the ‘leading name on Manchester United’s shortlist to spearhead their new sporting project’. The Red Devils view the Inter Milan captain ‘as the perfect complement to boost Kobbie Mainoo’s development’ as they target at least two midfield additions.
Inter Milan are ‘facing a financial situation that could force them to consider astronomical offers for their key assets’ but ‘will not let their captain leave without fair compensation’. The Italian giants have set Barella’s valuation at around €70m (£61m) for any potential summer departure.
United’s midfield recruitment takes on added urgency following their £200m attacking investment last summer in Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko. The club ‘know it cannot afford any mistakes’ in the transfer market if they are to challenge for the Premier League next season.
Michael Carrick’s side currently occupy fourth place in the Premier League table, putting them on course for Champions League qualification. This European competition status would significantly boost their transfer budget and enhance their ability to attract elite talent like Barella.
Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness has also endorsed Aston Villa’s Amadou Onana as an alternative target, suggesting United could secure him for around £50m. Meanwhile, Paul Scholes expressed his preference for Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali over Arsenal’s Declan Rice during a recent The Overlap appearance.
