Manchester United are ready to send an improved bid for Leece defender Patrick Dorgu after their initial bid offer was rejected, according to reports.
Ruben Amorim wanted to sign a new left winger this month to suit his preferred 3-4-3 formation. Right-backs Noussair Mazraoui and Diogo Dalot failed to consistently impress in that role, while the team’s natural left-backs, Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia, both struggled with injuries.
United wanted Nun Mendes from Paris Saint-Germain, a player Amorim worked with at Sporting CP, but Dorgu appeared as an alternative after it became clear that the Portuguese defender is on the verge of signing a new contract in France.
Premier League outfits already are met with Lecceas the Serie A club’s chairman revealed, and a first bid of €27m (£22.8m) was rejected. United are preparing an improved offer but are not yet ready to meet the €40m (£33.8m) price tag, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The Athletic United are reported to be willing to go as high as €30m (£25.4m), although that is still well short of Leece’s valuation. United’s director of negotiations Matt Hargreaves traveled to Italy to continue talks with his Leece counterpart Pantaleo Corvino.
United are constrained by the Premier League’s profit and sustainability regulations, which cap the amount any club can spend over three consecutive seasons. Some funds will open the upcoming departure of Antony on loan to Real Betisbut the Red Devils might still miss Dorg.
Napoli are thought to be interested in the 20-year-old and are weighing an offer that matches Lecce’s assessment.
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