Rumour: Manchester United given boost in chase for Torino forward Alessio Cerci

Alessio Cerci (R)

Premier League pair Manchester United and Manchester City’s interest in Alessio Cerci has been given a boost following reports that the Torino forward has rejected a contract offer from the Serie A side, according to TalkSport.

The 26-year-old has put in a string of impressive performances for Giampiero Ventura’s team, as they have climbed to ninth place in the table and could yet challenge for a Europa League place.

Cerci is available on a free transfer in the summer of 2015 unless he agrees a new deal with the club, which looks increasingly unlikely due to the interest of several high profile European clubs.

If he has indeed turned down a contract extension then Torino could choose to sell him at the end of the current campaign, for a sizeable fee, rather than risk letting him slip through their grasp for nothing.

United boss David Moyes is believed to be keen on the forward as he looks to begin a dramatic overhaul of his stuttering squad, but Torino’s city rivals Juventus are also reported to be prepared to lodge a £16 million bid so competition for his signature looks to be fierce.

Cerci has been rewarded for his exploits this season with a call-up to Cesare Prandelli’s provisional World Cup squad and his fee will only rise if he continues in his current vein of form.

Alessio Cerci has scored 11 goals and provided eight assists in 26 appearances for Torino this season.