Manchester United to battle Inter Milan for top rated Serie A defender

Manchester United is interested in Sassuolo defender Tarik Muharemovic. The Bosnia and Herzegovina international has been one of the standout performers in Serie A this season.

The 22-year-old has drawn admirers for his all around threat, dominating in both boxes with his stature and athleticism. He’s made 16 appearances this season, scoring two goals and adding two assists.

Muharemovic ranks amongst the top defenders in Europe in aerial duels won, clearances, and shots blocked. He is also an adept passer of the ball, ranking highly in successful passes completed as well.

Italian outfit Gazzetta dello Sport has reported that United have sent scouts to keep tabs on the player who is also on the radar of Italian giants Inter Milan as well as Bologna, Bournemouth, and Aston Villa.

Muharemovic joined Sassuolo from Juventus for €3m in the summer of 2025 and now has a reported value of around €30m. Juventus are also set to net 50% of any future sale of the player, so Sassuolo will likely look to negotiate a substantial sum.

Sassuolo are reportedly keen to wait until the summer before sanctioning a deal for their top man, but a lofty bid in January could be enough to prize the player. United are expected to be active in the transfer window.

The Red Devils have a well publicized shortlist of midfield targets, but are also believed to be keen on defensive reinforcements. The long term futures of Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez continue to be uncertain.

United’s defensive record this season has been called into question, after conceding 32 goals in 21 matches. While much of that may be attributed to former manager Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-3 system which left his side exposed in transition, personnel changes have also been discussed internally at the club.

United drew Burnley 2-2 in their last Premier League outing, and next face a home tie with Brighton in the FA Cup on Sunday.

Nadji is a football writer with over 10 years of experience covering the Premier League. His work has been featured on Football Fancast, Arsenal-Mania, and Arsenal.com, where he has built a reputation for delivering sharp analysis, engaging storytelling, and in-depth coverage of the game.