Battle line drawn as Manchester United ‘visit Chelsea target’ amid transfer talks

Chelsea and Manchester United are set to battle it out as the Red Devil”s scouting team made a significant appearance in Italy during Jose Mourinho’s AS Roma’s clash against Atalanta in Serie A over the weekend.

However, the focus wasn’t on Mourinho; instead, it revolved around closely observing Chelsea target Giorgio Scalvini, the highly-rated defender linked with a potential move to Old Trafford.

United has done business with Atalanta in the last few years with the signings of Amad Diallo and Rasmus Hojlund.

Scalvini marked his 21st appearance of the season, featuring in Gian Piero Gasperini’s starting lineup during Atalanta’s hard-fought battle, resulting in a 1-1 draw at the Stadio Olimpico.

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Teun Koopmeiners set the pace for the visitors, netting an early goal in the eighth minute, while Paulo Dybala secured an equalizer from the penalty spot just before halftime.

According toHITC, United were represented among the scouts in Rome as they continued to monitor Scalvini’s development.

United are said to have been keeping tabs on the 20-year-old centre-back for more than a year, and other reports suggest their interest is advanced.

Earlier this week, French publication Les Bons Conceil Du Sports reported that the Red Devils were in advanced negotiations with Atalanta over Scalvini’s signature.

It’s claimed they are ready to activate the £44million release clause in Scalvini’s contract after monitoring his development over an extended period.

He is one of Europe’s most highly-rated young centre-backs and has also been courted by Serie A giants AC Milan, Juventus and Inter Milan.

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Spanish reports have linked Scalvini with Real Madrid, while United’s Premier League rivals Chelsea have also been credited with an interest in the 6ft 4in starlet.

He has quickly established himself as an important player for club and country since making his Atalanta debut as a 17-year-old in October 2021.

The Italy international has already played 75 times for the Bergamo outfit, appearing 17 times in the Serie A and four in the Europa League this season.

Scalvini has also earned seven senior international caps after Roberto Mancini handed him his debut in Italy’s 5-2 defeat to Germany in June 2022. He had represented his country from U15 to U19 level.

United are expected to prioritise a new centre-back in their first summer transfer window under Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS’ control.

Giorgio Scalvini a potential replacement for Raphael Varane

Giorgio Scalvini

Manchester United scouts have watched Giorgio Scalvini play against AS Roma. And, they will send their reports about the player and his capabilities.

So, it will be interesting to see the development of this Man Utd transfer news on Giorgio Scalvini to Manchester United. The 20-year-old Italian defender is catching the eyes of various European clubs.

Also, it is worth noting that there is immense scope for improvement in the game of Giorgio Scalvini. So, will Erik ten Hag accept Scalvini as a replacement for the experienced Raphael Varane?

This will create a huge question mark on this deal. However, looking at how Ten Hag likes to nurture young talents, Giorgio Scalvini can be a perfect signing for the Dutch manager who is striving to bring Manchester United back to the top of English and European football.