Manchester United are one of the top European clubs interested in signing Atalanta defender Giorgio Scalvini ahead of the January transfer window.
The Red Devils were linked with several marquee central defenders last summer but a deal did not materialise due to the lack of transfer funds.
United were hoping to offload Harry Maguire to accommodate a new signing but the former captain decided to fight for his place under manager Erik ten Hag.
The club continue to be linked with options to bolster their backline and Alfredo Pedulla claims that Scalvini is currently on the radar of the Red Devils.
Both United and Real Madrid appreciate the qualities of the youngster, but barring ‘sensational surprises’ and ‘crazy’ offers, Atalanta are unlikely to sell him.
The Bergamo outfit have postponed any discussion over his future until the summer.
Scalvini could be pursued by Man Utd next summer
The 20-year-old is regarded as one of the best young central defenders in the Italian top-flight.
He has been brilliant for Atalanta this season with an average of 2.1 tackles, 2.1 interceptions and 2.4 clearances per game alongside 5.6 ball recoveries.
The Italian has also been strong when it comes to duels and has won an impressive 68 per cent of his aerial challenges with his tall presence at the back.
These are qualities which will have impressed United, but he still has room for improvement with his distribution. He has a passing accuracy of 81 per cent.
Back in November, it was reported that Atalanta could sell him to United for around €50 million, but the price tag could be higher for a mid-season departure.
United may not afford him this winter with Financial Fair Play concerns. The club may prefer a loan deal with an option to buy which Atalanta are unlikely to accept.
Stats from Sofascore.com
