The name Gianluca Di Marzio brings with it a level of reliability when it comes to news on Italian clubs and players, as the Sky Italia journalist has built up a track record of reliable tips in an ocean of bullshit on twitter in particular.
Di Marzio was among the first to suggest that Jose Mourinho to Manchester United was a done deal, which many (including Di Marzio, obviously) believe to still be the case, but now it appears that The Special One is already planning out his transfer targets too.
The big news that broke on Monday morning was that Zlatan Ibrahimovic is open to the idea of joining Jose at Old Trafford, and while the big Swede's goals are certainly something that would be of use, it is also very much clear that reinforcements at the back are needed.
Atop Mourinho's list of defenders, apparently, is Greek international Kostas Manolas of AS Roma.
England's Premier League is appearing more likely as a possible landing spot for Kostas Manolas of Roma, with a number of teams targeting the central defender. Chelsea loves the player, to add to Conte's new slate, and appear in a good position, already having met with Roma. But the Blues are not alone, Manchester United is also launching an attempt. United have held a meeting with the defender's agent in the last few days and are now looking to move ahead of their English rivals for the signature.
Mourinho supposedly tried to sign Manolas for Chelsea back in August, and with Conte having seen what he can do for Roma in Serie A, it is expected that the London club will battle Man Utd for the Greek's signature.
Manolas is a strong defender who can also play the ball, and would be seen as the perfect foil for Chris Smalling at the heart of United's defence. If, that is, he can be convinced to go a season without Champions League football as it looks more and more likely that Man Utd will miss out.
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via [gianlucadimarzio.com]
