Report: Man United interested in move to sign Serie A defender | OneFootball

Manchester United track Tarik Muharemović as Serie A rise draws scouts

Manchester United’s long running search for defensive assurance has taken another turn towards Italy. As reported by Caught Offside, United have been sending scouts regularly to watch Tarik Muharemović, the 22 year old who has emerged as one of Serie A’s most consistent young defenders since joining Sassuolo.

Muharemović’s ascent has been sharp. Signed last summer from Juventus Next Gen for around €3 million, he has made 17 league appearances and quickly outgrown the modest expectations that followed him to Emilia Romagna. That progress has not gone unnoticed. Alongside United, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are monitoring him, while Inter and Juventus remain attentive from within Serie A.

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Contract clauses complicate any deal

The arithmetic is as interesting as the football. Juventus inserted a clause entitling them to 50 percent of any future transfer fee, effectively ensuring they remain part of the conversation. That detail alone raises the bar for prospective buyers and complicates negotiations, particularly for Italian rivals.

Interest from Germany adds further tension. RB Leipzig have prepared a bid worth €25 million plus bonuses, signalling serious intent. Sassuolo, however, are reluctant sellers in January. CEO Giovanni Carnevali has acknowledged that “there have been contacts but no official offers yet,” while stressing that valuation will rise depending on who comes forward.

United context and defensive planning

United’s interest fits a broader pattern. The future of Harry Maguire remains uncertain and recruitment staff are clearly assessing younger, progressive options capable of growing into a long term role. Muharemović’s profile, composed on the ball, physically assertive and tactically mature, aligns with that thinking.

A January move appears unlikely given Sassuolo’s stance, but the expectation is that competition will intensify once the summer window opens. For now, Europe’s leading clubs are circling, aware that waiting may only push the price higher.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Manchester United fans have grown weary of high profile defensive fixes that fail to deliver consistency. The idea of targeting a younger centre back with scope to develop feels sensible, even overdue.

There is also scepticism. Supporters will question whether United are merely monitoring again, filing reports rather than acting decisively. With rivals like Leipzig prepared to move early, fans fear another scenario where United arrive late and overpay or miss out entirely.

The Juventus clause adds another layer of frustration. United supporters know how quickly complex deals can unravel, and many will wonder whether the club have the clarity and conviction to navigate this one. Still, the profile makes sense. If United are serious about rebuilding with structure and patience, Muharemović represents the type of signing that could quietly pay off over time. The challenge, as ever, will be execution.