Manchester United are among one of the top European clubs interested in signing Atalanta defender Giorgio Scalvini.
Erik ten Hag has identified central defence as one of the key areas to reinforce in the upcoming transfer window after a poor 2023/24 campaign, with Manchester United lagging in the top four race and out of Europe already. The Dutchman was down to the bare bones of his squad for Man United’s 2-0 defeat to West Ham at the London Stadium last weekend.
Now, the Red Devils have reportedly set their sights on Atalanta’s Giorgio Scalvini to solve their defensive woes. They “really like” Scalvini and are also “following” Genoa defender Radu Dragusin.
Scalvini, 20, considered one of the best young defenders in Serie A, has made 20 appearances for Atalanta under Gian Piero Gasperini this season. Real Madrid are also understood to be interested in him after undergoing an injury crisis of their own.
Giorgio Scalvini on Man United radar
With Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s 25% stake in Man United confirmed earlier this week, all eyes now turn to what the club does in the upcoming January transfer window. There is a need to invest in the squad, especially in defence, with Ten Hag currently without Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez and Victor Lindelof. Raphael Varane is injury-prone while Jonny Evans is past his best.
Under Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Man United’s transfer strategy can increasingly be expected to circle buying young and hungry talents with huge potential instead of signings superstars such as Casemiro and Varane. Atalanta’s rising star Giorgio Scalvini, in that regard, is the perfect profile for the Mancunian club.
Scalvini enjoyed an eye-catching breakout season last term with Atalanta, and his rise in stature this season has earned admiration from Man United. In addition, the youngster’s calm and composed head on young shoulders and incredible ability to hold his own in a physical battle has earned him the trust of Italy coach Luciano Spalletti. He has made seven appearances for the Azzurri since his debut last summer.
Atalanta have no intention of selling Scalvini in January as they aim to book a place in the Champions League next term, and the defender’s contract only expiring in 2028 puts them in a commanding position. Owing to FFP rules, cash-strapped United may not be able to afford him this winter but they are one to watch out for in the summer.
I am Rohan Sengupta from one of the busiest cities in India, Mumbai. A Journalism graduate with a keen interest in sports, football is something I simply cannot live without and writing, discussing and analyzing the game is what I do 24*7.
