Manchester United and Chelsea have allegedly been handed a blow in the race for Lecce defender Patrick Dorgu.
The left-sided player burst onto the scene in Serie A during 2023-24, making 32 appearances after spending a year in the youth ranks.
As a result, interest in his signature was generated during the summer transfer window, and that has only continued courtesy of his performances this season.
Three goals have come from 13 outings in Italy's top flight, being deployed in a range of positions as Lecce attempt to remain outside of the relegation zone in Serie A.
Despite Dorgu signing a new contract as recently as October, it appears that more teams are ready to rival the likes of United and Chelsea.
Patrick Dorgu of US Lecce during US Lecce vs AC Monza on July 20, 2024© Imago
Serie A leaders to make their move?
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Napoli have identified Dorgu as a player who they wish to use on their left flank for years to come.
The report claims that president Aurelio De Laurentiis has taken a liking to the 20-year-old, his case potentially helped by Lecce only losing 1-0 to Napoli earlier in the season.
Aware of interest from elsewhere, De Laurentiis is said to be ready to make a formal approach for Dorgu next month in the hope of sealing a long-term deal.
While Napoli are said to be willing to offer €30m (£24.88m) for the Denmark international, Lecce are allegedly demanding that they receive €40m (£33.17m).
Furthermore, Lecce are eager to retain Dorgu's services until at least the rest of the season.
Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim on December 1, 2024© Imago
Would missing out be a blow to Premier League clubs?
Man United - through necessity as much as anything - will almost certainly be in the market for a new left-sided player at some point during 2025.
Tyrell Malacia has only just returned from nearly 18 months on the sidelines with a serious knee injury at the same time as Luke Shaw has revealed that he will miss a number of weeks with a new fitness issue.
From Chelsea's perspective, however, they already have Marc Cucurella and Renato Veiga as their long-term options at left-back, with Malo Gusto able to deputise if required.
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