Man Utd & Real Madrid eye Atalanta star Giorgio Scalvini in January transfer window

According to Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla,the Red Devils have set their sights on the 19-year-old centre-back from Italy to solve their defensive woes. Erik ten Hag has identified central defence as one of the key areas to reinforce in the upcoming transfer window and the manager believes that Scalvini is the perfect profile for United.

However, United are not the only side interested in Scavini as Real Madrid are also reportedly keen on his services. Los Blancos are currently going through an injury crisis of their own, with both Eder Militao and David Alaba sidelined with ACL injuries. And the red card for Nacho against Alaves leaves Carlo Ancelotti with only one available centre-back in Antonio Rudiger, and it would not be surprising if Madrid broke the bank for Scalvini.

Scalvini has made 16 appearances for Atalanta under Gian Piero Gasperini and, aged just 19, has made seven appearances for the full Italian national team.

Scalvini is a prized asset at Atalanta and they have reportedly set a price tag of at least €50 million (£43m/$55m). Moreover, they are not interested in letting him go in January as they aim to finish the season with a European berth for 2024-25. Indeed, the centre-back is contracted to Atalanta until 2028, handing the Serie A outfit the clear upper hand in negotiations with any potential suitor.