Manchester United could reportedly have an agreement to sign Turkish defender Merih Demiral from Atalanta, with Real Madrid also keen.
According to Italian outlet Tutto Atalanta, Manchester United are leading Real Madrid in the race to sign Merih Demiral from Serie A outfit Atalanta in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Currently owned by Juventus, Demiral joined Atalanta on loan during the summer of last year and has excelled at the club. The Turkish international has emerged as a mainstay for Gian Piero Gasperini’s side, racking up 42 appearances across all competitions in which he has even chipped in with two goals and three assists.
Atalanta have an option to make his transfer permanent this summer, which they are expected to trigger imminently. However, much like they did with Cristian Romero last summer, La Dea could be set to offload Demiral for a profit immediately after signing him from Juventus, with Manchester United and Real Madrid emerging as potential destinations.
Manchester United were all over the place in defence in the recently-concluded campaign. Senior defenders Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof were inconsistent and sloppy, while summer signing Raphael Varane endured an injury-riddled debut season in England. With Eric Bailly and Phil Jones set to depart, there is room for defensive reinforcements at Old Trafford.
Incoming manager Erik ten Hag has reportedly set his sights on his former protege Jurrien Timber of AFC Ajax. At the same time, it seems like Merih Demiral is also a name being considered by Manchester United.
Real Madrid are also believed to be interested in signing the 24-year-old Turkish international, which comes off as a bit surprising. Los Blancos have an established centre-back pairing in Eder Militao and David Alaba, while they have adequate cover in Nacho Fernandez and Jesus Vallejo.
On top of that, Real Madrid have an agreement in place to sign Antonio Rudiger from Chelsea on a free transfer this summer. But, the report claims that the Spanish champions have expressed an interest in Demiral. However, it seems like Carlo Ancelotti’s side may be trailing Manchester United in their pursuit of Demiral.
Indeed, as per the report, Manchester United may already have an agreement in principle with Atalanta to sign the Turkish international in the upcoming transfer window. If true, the 24-year-old has the potential to be a smart signing for the Red Devils, given his age, potential and leadership qualities. However, it remains to be seen if such a move materialises in the summer.
