Manchester United 'approach Roma to discuss Leonardo Spinazzola deal'

Manchester United have reportedly been in touch with Roma to discuss the possibility of signing defender Leonardo Spinazzola before the end of the summer transfer window.

The Red Devils are looking to bring in a new left-back before Friday's deadline, with Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia both on the sidelines through injury.

Diogo Dalot played at left-back against Nottingham Forest on Saturday, but head coach Erik ten Hag is said to be desperate to sign a specialist in that area of the field over the next few days.

Chelsea's Marc Cucurella appears to have emerged as the favourite ahead of the likes of Barcelona's Marcos Alonso and Tottenham Hotspur's Sergio Reguilon.

However, according to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Man United have now made contact with Roma to discuss a possible move for Spinazzola before the end of the transfer window.

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The Italy international was linked with a move to Saudi Arabia earlier this summer, with Al Shabab among the clubs thought to be showing an interest in his services.

However, Spinazzola has stayed with Roma up to this point, and he has played in both of his team's Serie A matches against Salernitana and Hellas Verona this season.

The 30-year-old was a vital player for Jose Mourinho's side during the 2022-23 campaign, meanwhile, making 40 appearances in all competitions, scoring twice and registering six assists.

Spinazzola's contract in Rome is due to expire next June, although it is understood that any move for the Italian to Old Trafford this summer would be on loan.

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The left-back actually started his professional career at Juventus, but he only made 12 first-team appearances for the Old Lady before leaving permanently in 2019 after a series of loan spells.

Man United have made three signings this summer, bringing in Mason Mount, Andre Onana and Rasmus Hojlund, but the club could sign potentially three more before the window closes.

In addition to a new left-back, the Red Devils are planning to sign a goalkeeper, as Dean Henderson prepares to leave Old Trafford to make the move to Crystal Palace.

Fenerbahce's Altay Bayindir is soon expected to be confirmed as a new Man United player, with the Turkey international preparing to sign a long-term contract.

Meanwhile, Ten Hag's side are working to sign a central midfielder, and it is being reported that the club are now in talks with Fiorentina over a loan deal for Sofyan Amrabat.