Torino full-back Raoul Bellanova joined Manchester United’s transfer list if you believe last week’s reports from Italian media.
The Italian defender is regarded as one of the most in-form Serie A players this season, with the right wing-back reportedly coming under the radar of a number of top European clubs, including United.
Bellanova, 23, has been at Torino since last summer following a €7m transfer from Cagliari and his current deal expires in June 2027. He is still waiting on his senior Italy debut.
Speculation a week ago suggested United and and top four contenders Aston Villa have sent scouts to watch Bellanova ‘multiple times’ this season.
The report also suggests United are looking at right-back options as they plan to sell Aaron Wan-Bissaka at the end of the season, with Diogo Dalot becoming Erik ten Hag’s preferred option at full-back this season – covering both flanks when called upon.
However, fresh intel from Tuttosport suggests West Ham are now targeting a move for Bellanova in the summer.
None of these clubs have the same pull factor as United, even if we fail in our attempts to qualify for the Champions League and Villa succeed with their push.
I’m also sure that United will have a long list of options for the right-back role and that will depend heavily on when a sporting director, along with recruitment specialists, are appointed to the new roles under Ineos Sports group.
The last United manager to sign a full-back from Torino was also a Dutchman.
Matteo Darmian may not have had the greatest of times at United, although he did win a Europa League, but the Italian has gone on to have a brilliant career for Inter Milan.
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