Manchester United 'hold phone calls over Nicolo Barella move' and more transfer rumours

Manchester United have reportedly held phone calls over a possible move for Nicolo Barella.

The Italy international has been a key part of Inter's midfield unit since joining them from Cagliari in 2020 after a loan spell at San Siro. But financial problems with the Milan club could force them to offload some key players, and Newcastle are said to have already made an approach.

But while their Champions League qualification is a huge pull, Gazzetta dello Sport claims United are Barella's ideal destination. The report adds that 'interested phone calls' have been made from Old Trafford, although any offer will need to be around €80million plus add-ons.

Elsewhere, United will have to battle Arsenal if they want to sign Jurrien Timber, with Mikel Arteta's side having reportedly made an opening offer for the defender.

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United are long-time admirers of Timber, with Erik ten Hag exploring the possibility of bringing his compatriot across from Ajax last summer. United eventually signed Lisandro Martinez after Timber was warned by former national team boss Louis van Gaal that the move was a bad idea.

But with defensive reinforcements on Ten Hag's summer agenda, links with Timber have been constant - fuelled in part by the 22-year-old consistently hinting at his departure from Ajax. However, according to The Athletic's David Ornstein, that summer move could see him join up with United's Premier League rivals Arsenal.

The Gunners are said to have made a £30million bid for the Dutchman and remain confident they can come to an agreement with Ajax, who value their man closer to £50million. The report adds that personal terms are already in place with Timber.