Manchester United are reportedly keeping a close eye on Atalanta centre-back Giorgio Scalvini, with Michael Carrick keen to strengthen his defensive options.
The Red Devils currently list Matthijs de Ligt, Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro, Lisandro Martinez, and Ayden Heaven as available centre-back options this summer.
However, the depth at the position is somewhat misleading, with De Ligt having been sidelined through injury for several months this year.
Martinez has also been a persistent injury concern, having suffered numerous fitness problems across the last few seasons at Old Trafford.
Yoro has found it difficult to establish himself in the Premier League since his arrival from LOSC Lille, failing to nail down a regular starting role.
Maguire, meanwhile, has not been immune to injury issues either, further highlighting why Carrick views the defensive area as one requiring investment.
According to The Telegraph, United have been monitoring Scalvini’s development closely and have liked what they have seen from the Atalanta man.
The 22-year-old stands at 6ft 4in tall and is naturally a right-footed centre-back, though he can also provide cover in a defensive midfield role when required.
Scalvini is described as technically sound, comfortable in possession, good in the air, and effective in his defensive contributions across Serie A.
In 24 Serie A appearances last season, the Italian international scored three goals and registered one assist, while also contributing to five clean sheets for Atalanta.
Transfermarkt values the defender at around £33m, and he remains under contract with the Italian club until 2028, giving Atalanta a strong negotiating position.
The Serie A outfit are known for driving a hard bargain when it comes to selling key assets and are under no pressure to let Scalvini leave this window.
United’s interest comes despite concerns that Scalvini himself has struggled with fitness problems in recent campaigns, limiting his availability at club level.
Some observers have pointed out that United have already invested heavily in players with injury histories, including De Ligt, Martinez, Luke Shaw, and Mason Mount.
Elsewhere in their summer business, United have brought in Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa, while also signing Karl Darlow to support goalkeeper Senne Lammens.