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Manchester United are reportedly keen to complete a summer transfer for Bologna defender Ricciardo Calafiori.
Strengthening the back line is believed to be one of United’s biggest priorities in the current period, and the club has already started making moves to bring in reinforcements.
Just over a week ago, Erik ten Hag’s side made a bid for Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite. The offer was rejected, but another offer is expected to be announced soon.
It has been revealed that United have also made contact with Ligue 1 giants Lille to express an interest in their 19-year-old defensive gem Leny Yoro.
Other alternatives being considered at Old Trafford include Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace), Max Kilman (Wolves), Ronald Araujo (Barcelona), Trevor Chalobah (Chelsea), Matthijs de Ligt (Bayern Munich) and Gleison Bremer (Juventus), if only to mention a few names.
TuttoJuve are now reporting that the Red Devils also want Calafiori.
Calafiori played a key role last season as Bologna secured Champions League football for the first time since 1964, the last year they also won the Scudetto.
He made 30 appearances in Serie A and helped Bologna keep clean sheets in half of them. He also scored two goals.
Along with United, Juventus and Liverpool have also been strongly linked with the Italy international.
TuttoJuve notes: “Riccardo Calafiori, Italy’s Euro 2024 starter and key player for Bologna, has caught the attention of Manchester United. This 22-year-old defender has established himself as one of the most promising talents in European football, and he is also closely watched by Juventus.”
“Bologna is asking for 40 million euros and United could satisfy Rosobla.”
Calafiori would be a welcome addition to Erik ten Haag’s ranks. The Italian is not only solid defensively, but also technically gifted,
He averages 69.35 passes per 90, which puts him in the 80th percentile. He also makes 3.68 progressive passes per game, which is more than Lisandro Martinez, who averages 3.67 progressive passes.
Calafiori also averages 1.80 tackles, 1.92 tackles and 2.84 clearances per 90.
(Statistics obtained from Fbref)
An added benefit of owning Calafiori is that it is very versatile. He can play on the left and right of central defense. When needed, he can also make excellent use of his trade at left-back.
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