Manchester United are one of the Premier League clubs that could persuade Inter Milan midfielder Nicolo Barella into a move this summer, according to Fichajes.
The Italy international has been long linked with a switch to the English top-flight. He was on the radar of Newcastle United last summer, but he turned down the proposal to join them.
This has not ended the speculation over his future. Fichajes report that Inter are currently on a mission to keep hold of their key asset and they want to extend his stay until June 2028.
The 27-year-old is an important part of manager Simone Inzaghi’s plans, but it is claimed that the stance may change if United, Newcastle or Liverpool could ‘finally convince’ the player and Inter into a transfer.
United could consider summer move for Barella
The former Cagliari man has been a mainstay in the number eight role for the Nerazzurri. He has made seven goal contributions from 35 appearances in the current campaign.
Aside from his goal involvements, Barella has completed an impressive 86 per cent of his passes in the Italian Serie A with 4.8 ball recoveries and 1.3 tackles won per game.
His tireless work rate and high pressing have made him a huge hit at San Siro. Having just turned 27, Barella is in the prime of his career, and it may not be easy to prise him away.
Barella is currently valued at €75 million (£64m) by Transfermarkt. With another two years left on his contract, the Nerazzurri could ask a similar fee to sanction his departure.
A deal could depend on the requirements of manager Erik ten Hag. If Casemiro were to leave United, the focus could turn to a holding midfielder and Barella may not be an option.
Otherwise, he would be a quality addition. Barella would add more creativity. He has contributed towards 19 and 17 goals respectively for Inter during the last two seasons.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
