Manchester United have shown some interest in the potential transfer of Inter Milan midfielder Nicolo Barella, but CaughtOffside understands they have been given a firm answer that he is absolutely not available.
Sources with a close understanding of the situation have informed CaughtOffside that Barella is considered a hugely important player for Inter, who have also pointed to the fact that he only recently signed a new long-term contract.
With a deal now running until 2029, there is little prospect of Inter letting Barella go, or feeling any pressure to do so, with Man Utd not yet making their interest anywhere near as advanced as some reports have indicated.
The Red Devils will likely be one of a number of top clubs who admire the Italy international, but there is little sense in putting a lot of effort into pursuing a player who won’t be moving, so this story is not expected to go anywhere further unless something dramatic changes in the weeks or months ahead.
Barella transfer blow for Man United
Barella could surely play a key role for a big club like United, but he’s already at an ambitious team where he can play regularly and compete for major trophies.
The 27-year-old seems very much content to continue to give his best years to Inter, so it seems unlikely that we’ll get to see this fine talent playing in the Premier League any time soon.
There have been rumours about MUFC trying a bid of around €75m to Inter for Barella, but CaughtOffside understands that no offer is in the works, and it would likely take a much higher fee for the Serie A giants to consider even entering into negotiations anyway.
Barella has been linked with other big clubs at various points in his career, but he’s always stayed loyal to Inter, so it’s not clear what it would take for that to change.
United may well also feel they’re reasonably well-stocked in that area of the pitch anyway, with similar players like Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount and Christian Eriksen on their books.