Manchester United have reportedly identified one of Como‘s attacking players as a potential summer transfer target.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has made no secret of the fact that United are currently facing a struggle to adhere to the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability regulations.
While that could change for the better with Champions League qualification and player sales, it is clear that the Red Devils will face a challenge to deliver the targets on the shortlist of Ruben Amorim and club officials.
In January, United turned their eyes to Serie A to acquire the signature of Patrick Dorgu, the wing-back viewed as an integral signing for the present and future.
According to transfer expert Nicolo Schira, United have returned to Italy to assess the capabilities of one of Como’s shining lights.
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Diao wanted by Man United?
Schira claims that Assane Diao is very much on United’s radar with scouts having already been sent to Italy to assess the winger.
The 19-year-old has proven to be a revelation in Cesc Fabregas’s side, contributing five goals from 12 outings in Serie A since the turn of the year.
Included in that goal glut are efforts versus Napoli and Juventus, strikes that have kept the youngster’s career on an upward trajectory after a frustrating stint at Real Betis.
Diao is now part of a team that sits seven points clear of the Serie A relegation zone as Fabregas looks to establish Como in the top flight with a mix of youth and experience.
With Diao possessing a contract until 2029, Como do not have to be in any rush to part ways with the starlet, yet there may be an understanding that consideration will have to be given if an offer reaches a certain number.
Como paid in the region of €12m (£10.04m) to sign Diao, yet his asking price is now considerably higher than that having also made his international bow for Senegal.
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Is a deal realistic?
While United seemingly hold an interest in Diao, they are likely to be realistic over how much they are prepared to spend on the player.
In his professional career, Diao remains with 11 goals and three assists from 59 appearances, highlighting that he is far from proven at the level required.
Furthermore, United may have to part ways with one of their attacking players to facilitate his arrival. Alejandro Garnacho, Antony and Marcus Rashford are all options on that front.
