Standout Serie A ace claims he is an avid follower of United ahead of summer transfer race for his signature – report

Bologna star Sam Beukema has revealed he watches Manchester United regularly.

Despite signing two new central defenders over the summer, United are expected to explore the transfer market for a new centre-back ahead of the new season owing to concerns over Lisandro Martinez’s fitness.

The Argentina international has suffered a cruciate knee ligament injury and is likely to remain sidelined for the remainder of this year.

Amid this, Bologna centre-back Beukema has grabbed a few eyeballs by shining light on his interest in following United games.

The Dutchman has been linked with a move to Liverpool in recent times on the back of his impressive showings in Serie A. Arne Slot, in particular, is understood to be his admirer.

The 26-year-old recently spoke to Gazzetta dello Sport about his future and mentioned his ex-Bologna teammate Joshua Zirkzee and the Red Devils.

“Josh and I are always in touch, even this morning. We don’t just talk about football, but about life. I always watch Manchester United,” Beukema said.

The comment is likely to lead to rumours linking the player with United.

Like most Dutch centre-backs, Beukema is exceptional with the ball at his feet and is heavily involved in his side’s build-up phase. His passing range is impressive and he is capable of carrying the ball higher up the field.

Accordingly, if United decide to replace Martinez, who is also exceptional in possession, Beukema could prove to be a good option, especially in Ruben Amorim’s back-three formation.

Having said that, United fans may not be very excited to see another Bologna player at Old Trafford anytime soon, having seen Zirkzee’s struggles.

The striker moved to United only last summer and was heavily linked with a return to Italy heading into the recently concluded winter window. 

Feature image Gabriele Maltinti via Getty Images

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