Federico Bernardeschi during a game for Juventus (Getty Images)
According to Italian outlet Tuttosport (h/t Daily Mail), Manchester United have approached Juventus winger Federico Bernardeschi.
The report claims that United have identified Bernardeschi as a back-up option if they fail to land the £100 million-rated Borussia Dortmund star Jadon Sancho.
Bernardeschi, on the other hand, has endured a difficult campaign this season after the arrival of new boss Maurizio Sarri. The 26-year-old, who is in his third season with the Serie A side, has made just 18 league appearances and is yet to score or provide an assist so far.
A key player for Juventus since his arrival, Bernardeschi has fallen down the pecking order under the Italian boss this season. Sarri has mostly preferred Juan Cuadrado ahead of him, giving a clear indication that Bernardeschi is not in his plans for the future.
Despite that, Bernardeschi has made 94 appearances for the Italian giants and has nine goals and 12 assists to his name, giving a clear idea of his talent and potential. A winner of two Serie A titles with Juve, Bernardeschi had in fact arrived at the Allianz Stadium after impressing for former side Fiorentina, where he scored 14 goals in the 2016-17 season.
He has also played 24 times for the Italian national team, scoring four goals in the process. Having made 140 Serie A appearances altogether for both Juventus and Fiorentina, Bernardeschi is nothing short of experience.
Though it has been an unproductive season so far for Bernardesci, that has not stopped Manchester United from pursuing their interest in the Italian. United, meanwhile, are in need of a new winger in order to provide support for Marcus Rashford.
An injury to goal-scoring forward Rashford midway through the season affected the side’s performance, with manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer having to rely on the out-of-form Jesse Lingard. The Red Devils also have newcomer Daniel James in their ranks but he has to work on his finishing. He has managed just three goals despite featuring 27 times in the league this season.
That said, United’s decision to rope in an experienced winger like Bernardeschi ahead of next season seems like a step in the right direction. Moreover, having featured in a number of positions, both with Juventus and Fiorentina, Bernardeschi can also offer Solskjaer plenty of options in the attack next season.
Rashford’s injury this season made it evident that United lack depth on the flanks. A proven performer in Serie A, Bernardeschi’s versatility makes him an even more valuable asset for United if a move happens. Hence, they should quickly make a move for him if they fail to sign the highly-rated Sancho.
