Manchester United have made four signings during the summer transfer window and there could be more activity before the August 30 deadline.
A new defensive midfielder remains the top priority for the club, but they continue to be linked with attacking players such as Juventus’ Federico Chiesa.
Sport reported yesterday that United have made an offer for the Italy international, but he may prefer a move to the Spanish top-flight with Barcelona interested.
However, today’s publication claims (page 6) that the former Fiorentina man is studying United’s proposal due to the registration complications at Barcelona.
Man Utd unlikely to sign Chiesa from Juventus
Chiesa had a tough spell with the Bianconeri after a serious knee injury, but he had a good 2023/24 season with ten goals and three assists in 37 appearances.
The 26-year-old played as the second striker alongside Dusan Vlahovic last term, but he is also comfortable operating on either flank.
His versatility would make him a good signing for any elite European club, but United may not pursue his signature unless there is a high-profile exit before the deadline.
The Red Devils have Alejandro Garnacho, Amad Diallo, Jadon Sancho and Antony competing for the right-wing role. Garnacho, Sancho and Marcus Rashford can play on the opposite side.
The club are also well occupied up front with Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund. Manager Erik ten Hag has also picked Bruno Fernandes as a false nine on multiple occasions.
Sancho has been tipped to head for the exit door, but there have been no formal bids.
It is unlikely that Chiesa will end up at Old Trafford. He will want the assurance of regular minutes, which United won’t be able to provide.
Chiesa, who has been described as ‘world-class‘ by former Italian defender Alessandro Pierini, may not join Barcelona either.
The speculation could be agent-driven to attract interest from other top European clubs this month.
Chiesa is available for just £13 million, having entered the last year of his Juventus contract. He has been put up for sale by the Bianconeri after snubbing an extension.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.
