Manchester United suffer blow in pursuit of 27-year-old Serie A star: Reports
Inter Milan have informed Manchester United that Nicolo Barella is not for sale, according to Caught Offside. The Red Devils are big admirers of the Italian midfielder and want to bring him to Old Trafford.
Barella initially joined the Nerazzurri in 2019 on loan from Cagliari, before his move was made permanent the following year. He has since become a mainstay in the Serie A giants' midfield and is closing in on 250 appearances for the club.
Last season, the 27-year-old was in inspired form, registering two goals and seven assists from 48 games across competitions. He helped Inter Milan win the league and made Manchester United take note.
The Red Devils reportedly knocked on the Italian side's door recently to understand the requirements of a deal. However, they were immediately informed that Barella remains indispensable for the club.
The Italy international signed a new deal with the Serie A giants in June this year, which keeps him at the San Siro until 2029. Inter Milan, hence, are under no pressure to let him go and can afford to be relaxed about the situation.
It has recently been suggested that Manchester United are willing to offer €75m for the player, but Caught Offside also rubbished those reports. Moreover, it is believed that the Italian midfielder would cost a lot more.
Will Manchester United invest in midfield in 2025?
Manchester United strengthened their midfield this summer by bringing in Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). However, Christian Eriksen's contract is set to expire at the end of this season and Casemiro is likely to end his stay at Old Trafford in 2025 as well.
The Premier League giants allowed Scott McTominay to leave this summer and could suddenly be light in the middle of the park next year. The Red Devils were planning to take Barella to Old Trafford next year to address the issue, but it now appears that their efforts will be futile.
The report adds that the Italian is settled with Inter Milan and has no desire to leave any time soon. With Kobbie Mainoo developing rapidly and Manuel Ugarte also only 23, the Premier League giants could also opt against signing a new midfielder next summer.
Interestingly, the Red Devils secured the services of highly rated 18-year-old midfielder Sekou Kone this summer, and he is likely to spend time with the youth side this season. The Malian could be ready to make the move to the first team next campaign.