Manchester United have been linked with a move for Inter midfielder Nicolo Barella as manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looks to bolster his squad ahead of a title tilt.

What's the story?

According to Italian outlet Calciomercato (as relayed by TheHardTackle), the Red Devils are interested in securing the 24-year-old's signature this summer, but they may face competition from one of their domestic rivals.

The report also states that fellow Premier League outfit Liverpool are also keen on signing Barella, with the Reds believed to be in the market for Gini Wijnaldum's successor.

Solskjaer would love him

Barella has established himself as one of the world's best box-to-box midfielders since arriving at San Siro back in 2019, scoring seven goals and providing 21 assists in 87 appearances for the Nerazzurri, claiming the Serie A crown along the way.

His standout performances have earned several plaudits in his homeland, including former Juventus and Italy star Claudio Marchisio.

“As an ex-midfielder, I cannot help but admire the constant growth and talent of Nicolò Barella,” said Marchisio last season. “Such a young player, already mature and complete. Inter fans are fortunate, but even more fortunate is our Italy squad.” In an outstanding 2020/21 campaign, the diminutive dynamo recorded 1.3 key passes per league game, 1.6 tackles and one dribble, placing him in the top three for each metric when compared to his teammates, as per WhoScored.

Barella carried his incredible club form onto the international stage during the European Championships, scoring one goal and laying on a further two assists in six outings as Italy claimed the Euro 2020 trophy.

It's no surprise, therefore, that two of English football's heavy hitters are reportedly interested in snapping up the £58.5m-rated machine in the current window.

With Paul Pogba yet to commit his future to United amid continued speculation over a move to Paris Saint-Germain, Solskjaer would surely love to bring Barella to Old Trafford over the coming weeks.

His presence in the Red Devils' engine room would go a long way to offsetting Pogba's potential absence and could ensure the 20-time English champions remain in contention for next season's Premier League crown.

And, in other news...MUFC suffer blow in pursuit of “magnificent” £40.5m-rated maestro, Ole will be gutted