Manchester United officials have contacted Manuel Locatelli's representatives over a summer move to Old Trafford, according to The Touchline.
The Red Devils are looking to rebuild their central midfield in 2026, with GIVEMESPORT sources revealing at least two top arrivals are expected in that area of the pitch in the next transfer window.
The need to rebuild has been heightened following the recent announcement that Casemiro will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the season.
When the Brazilian goes, Man United will be left with just Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo and Manuel Ugarte in terms of senior players to pick from in that central midfield position, with Mason Mount another possibility.
Man United Make Move for Locatelli
Locatelli
As per Touchline, posting on X, United officials have reached out to the Juventus star over a summer switch to Old Trafford as the club look to revolutionise its midfield.
The Red Devils are said to see the experienced 28-year-old as a potential replacement for Casemiro, and it is easy to see why.
Locatelli is Juventus' captain and has made 214 appearances for the Old Lady, as well as a further 63 for fellow Serie A giants AC Milan.
The 'top quality' Italian would bring a wealth of experience, having played at the highest level in Serie A and in the Champions League, while he is clearly a leader given the responsibility he has been handed at Juve.
While he is seen as a defensive midfield anchor, Locatelli's record of 14 goals and 24 assists in 301 Italian top flight matches, and three goals in 34 caps in Italy, show that he can have an impact in the final third too.
Who Are United's Other Midfield Targets?
Michael Carrick
While Manuel Ugarte's future might be uncertain in the summer, captain Fernandes and a rejuvenated Kobbie Mainoo may hope to be starting in United's midfield again next season.
It makes it interesting as to who the Red Devils will target to maintain a balance and keep their important players happy, with Locatelli a more experienced option than other names linked.
Locatelli is also a different profile given he wouldn't arrive at Old Trafford with any Premier League experience, which is an increasing consideration for United's recruitment team.
The other main midfield names linked with United in recent months and ahead of the summer are Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, Carlos Baleba of Brighton and Hove Albion and Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton.
The former is said to be United's number one midfield target according to the Athletic, so it will be interesting to see where Locatelli fits in should the Red Devils firm up their enquiry.
Manchester United assistant coach Michael Carrick before facing Southampton. Related
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