Manchester United transfer news: Jose Mourinho urged to buy Atalanta star Franck Kessie…by Eric Bailly
The 20-year-old - who is also being targeted by Chelsea and Real Madrid – is international teammates with the United defender
MANCHESTER UNITED star Eric Bailly has recommended Atalanta midfielder Franck Kessie to Jose Mourinho.
The 20-year-old - who is also being targeted by Chelsea and Real Madrid – is international teammates with the United defender.
Mourinho sent scouts to the African Cup of Nations to watch Kessie, and they were impressed with his performances.
And the Red Devils are considering rivalling Juventus, Roma and Inter Milan for the midfield ace who would cost around £25m.
A United source said: “Bailly has flagged his international pal Kessie to the club. He thinks he could be the new Yaya.
“He was watched during the AFCON and they like what they see. There is other clubs looking at him as well.”
Kessie has had a breakthrough season with Italian side Atalanta, helping them climb to fifth in the Serie A table.
He has made 14 appearances for the club and scored five goals, while receiving comparisons to Manchester City’s Yaya Toure.
The youngster admitted this week he was “flattered” by interest from Chelsea as he mulls over a move to one of Europe’s big teams.
He added: “I am very flattered clubs of this level are interested in me.
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“This proves that I’m having a good season, that I continue to progress. I don’t want to go too fast.
“I don’t know if my club has received any offers. I’m under contract. We’ll see if we need to discuss anything.
“I like Bergamo. The city is nice, quiet and I appreciate life in Italy, where I was well received.”