Manchester United eye Atalanta’s Giorgio Scalvini to fill defensive void

Manchester United are targeting Atalanta defender Giorgio Scalvini, valued at £32 million (€38 million), as the summer window tightens. Michael Carrick is reportedly ready to act, and less than a month remains before the transfer deadline. The club must move swiftly to close the deal.

United’s defensive line suffered last season when Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt were sidelined by injuries. The gap has left the side vulnerable, prompting the search for a versatile defender who can also operate in midfield.

Michael Carrick has yet to complete his transfer business this summer, according to the latest report. His focus now appears to be on securing a defensive reinforcement rather than adding another midfielder.

Manchester United have already reshaped their midfield by signing Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa and Andrey Santos from Chelsea, creating a new creative core for the squad.

Just over two weeks remain until United’s season‑opener against newly‑promoted Hull City, leaving little time for further signings before the campaign begins.

Scalvini, a 22‑year‑old, has made 137 appearances for Atalanta in Serie A. He can play as a centre‑back or defensive midfielder, completed 88 % of his passes last term, and has missed 81 matches in the past three years, including 14 games last season due to four separate fitness problems.

The Telegraph Carrick is no longer focused on signing a third midfielder, with remaining funds likely to be allocated to a defender. This shift underscores United’s priority to shore up the backline.

United are also entertaining the idea of sending Joshua Zirkzee on a season‑long loan to Juventus. The Dutch striker arrived for £36.5 million in 2024 and has scored nine goals in 75 appearances across all competitions.

If the move for Scalvini materialises, United could reinforce a weakened defence ahead of the Hull City clash, while the 22‑year‑old would gain a chance to play in the Premier League. The transfer would also free up resources for other squad adjustments.

The report, filed by Zelealem Senior Sports Reporter04:30 in Aug, includes ImagesMichael Campanella/Getty and Images. It highlights the urgency behind United’s pursuit of Scalvini and the broader strategic reshaping of the squad.