Varun Pai
Transfer News: Manchester United suffer setback as Nicolo Barella close to signing new Inter Milan contract
According to transfer news from Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano (h/t Sports Mole), Nicolo Barella is set to sign a new Inter Milan contract despite interest from Manchester United.
The 24-year-old signed for the Italian outfit two years ago but spent the first season on loan at Cagliari and convinced Antonio Conte to slot him into the Nerazzurri’s senior squad last season.
A wise decision as Barella scored three goals and provided 13 assists in 46 appearances, helping Inter win the Scudetto after a decade. The attacking midfielder has performed well under Simeone Inzaghi too this campaign, contributing to 7 goals in 11 league games.
However, the former Cagliari man has been linked with a move to Man United, Liverpool, and Tottenham Hotspur, after Conte signed for them.
The Red Devils could use the Inter star’s services, given that Paul Pogba could leave Old Trafford next summer amidst interest from Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, and Juventus.
Nemanja Matic shall turn 34 next year and will enter the final year of his contract. Hence, a move for Barella would certainly add to the quality in the ranks as the Manchester-based club would be getting a player on the verge of hitting his peak in the game.
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However, they have suffered a huge setback as the midfielder is now on the brink of agreeing to a new contract with the San Sir outfit. The new deal shall see the player earn €5million per season and commit his future at the club until 2026.
Hence, a move for the Italian international shall have to be ruled, and we might have to look elsewhere to strengthen the midfield line.
