Former United man given career lifeline by two Italian clubs, deal still faces “big obstacle” – report

Former Manchester United defender Eric Bailly is wanted by two Italian clubs.

Difficult career after United

The Ivorian has had his difficulties since leaving England.

He struggled whilst in Turkey for Besiktas after leaving United and had his contract cancelled after only a matter of months at the club.

Bailly then signed for his former club Villarreal but failed to make much of an impact.

The Ivory Coast international was then released from the Spanish side earlier this summer.

Saudi move fell through

The 31-year-old centre back looked like he would be on his way to Saudi Arabia to play for Al Najmah SC.

Nonetheless, this deal never came to pass as Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that the move broke down due to Bailly deciding to walk away from negotiations.

Italian interest

Italian website Calciomercato have reported that there are a couple of teams in Italy who hold an interest in the centre back.

They claim that Serie A could be in Bailly’s future very soon.

The website states that “the player’s team has offered him a Serie A deal with Cagliari and Cremonese: both the Sardinian and Lombard clubs are interested in him.”

Salary Obstacle

Nonetheless, a deal will not be plain sailing for the free agent.

The site reports that “the biggest obstacle at the moment is a salary request of at least €1 million.”

A move to Italy would add to “an impressive CV”, after spells in Spain, England, France and Turkey.

Bailly will hope wherever he lands, he can put together some significant time on the pitch.

He has not been able to play more than 25 games in a season since his debut campaign with Man United back in 2016/2017.

Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

Latest Top Stories…