Manchester United are plotting a move for Inter Milan defender Federico Dimarco but face competition from Real Madrid, according to the Independent.
Man United manager Erik ten Hag is keen to further strengthen his defensive options, with Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof facing uncertain futures at Old Trafford.
Dimarco’s versatility has pricked Ten Hag’s interest. Although the Italy international features predominantly as a left wing-back for Inter, he is equally adept at playing at left back and centre back.
Valued at €35 million by Transfermarkt, the 25-year-old’s relatively cheap transfer cost has also caught the eye, with Man United keen to negotiate a lower fee for the versatile Italian.
Dimarco was a standout performer for Inter last season, scoring five times and setting up ten in 50 appearances across all competitions.
Five of his assists came in the Champions League, with the Italian playing a prominent role in Inter’s European campaign as they reached the final in Istanbul.
The Red Devils currently have Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia on their roster, so it would be interesting to see how Ten Hag balances things, but Dimarco could be a shrewd summer acquisition.
That’s if they can fend off interest from Madrid, who are also keen on the defender to reinforce their left-back options this summer.
The Spanish giants went through most of the last campaign trusting Eduardo Camavinga to hold down the fort at left back, with Ferland Mendy in and out of the squad through injuries.
Nacho Fernandez was also used in that position sporadically. But Madrid are keen to sign a new left-back, with Camavinga reluctant to continue standing in for his injury-prone compatriot.
Los Blancos have also been linked with a big-money move for Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies but will face competition from Manchester City, who are also keen.
However, the Bundesliga champions have no appetite to see Davies leave Allianz Arena this summer and are trying to convince the Canada international to sign a new long-term contract.
