Manchester United are reportedly at the head of the queue for Inter Milan midfielder Nicolo Barella despite the recent speculation linking him with a move to Newcastle United.
The 26-year-old was in impressive form for his Italian club during the 2022-23 campaign, featuring on 52 occasions in all competitions, scoring nine goals and registering 10 assists in the process.
In Serie A, Barella scored six times and registered seven assists to help Inter finish third, while he netted three goals during his side's run to the final of the Champions League.
The Black and Blues also won the Italian Super Cup and Coppa Italia during a successful season, but there is currently speculation surrounding a number of their important players, including Barella.
A recent report claimed that Newcastle were in advanced discussions over a deal for the Italy international, with the Magpies preparing to return to the Champions League next season.
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However, according to Gazzetta dello Sport, Barella is more likely to join Man United during this summer's transfer window than any other club.
The report claims that 'interested phone calls' have been held between the two parties, with the Red Devils making it clear that they want to bring him to the Premier League this summer.
Barella arrived at Inter from Cagliari in 2019, initially on loan, and he has now represented the Milan giants on 187 occasions in all competitions, scoring 20 goals and registering 44 assists in the process.
Inter, in theory, are in a strong position when it comes to the midfielder's future, as his contract has another three years left to run, and he enjoyed an excellent 2022-23, which has potentially increased his valuation.
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However, the Serie A side's financial problems mean that they are unlikely to be in a position to reject a sizeable offer for the Italian in the current market.
Man United's main priority for the summer window is still to sign a new number nine, but they are seemingly currently concentrating their efforts on bringing in a central midfielder.
The club have thus far been frustrated in their attempts to sign Mason Mount from Chelsea, which has allegedly led to them exploring other options on the market.
Brighton & Hove Albion's Moises Caicedo is said to be an option, although Chelsea are also believed to be determined to sign the Ecuador international this summer.
Declan Rice has also been linked with a move to Old Trafford, but Arsenal and Manchester City are currently leading the race to sign the West Ham United captain.
Matt Law
