Arsenal and Barcelona are playing catch-up to Manchester United in the race for Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni’s signature.

Alessandro Bastoni could be on the move next summer as the biggest clubs in Europe want to prise him away from Inter Milan. According to a report from Fichajes, Manchester United have leapfrogged Barcelona and Arsenal in the race to sign the Italian international.

Bastoni came up the ranks at Atalanta and got promoted to their first team at the start of 2017. Just six months after his promotion to the senior side, Inter Milan struck a deal for his services. He then had a loan spell at his childhood club before spending another season at Parma.

The 26-year-old eventually established himself in the first team at San Siro and has only gone from strength to strength over the years. In the ongoing campaign, the Italian centre-back has been involved in 30 matches and has contributed towards seven goals.

Premier League trio wants Bastoni

Yet again, he has been one of their standout performers. While he still has over two years left on his deal at San Siro, Bastoni’s future has become an interesting talking point amidst interest from clubs like Barcelona, Arsenal and Manchester United.

The Red Devils seek more quality at the back, and an experienced campaigner like Bastoni could certainly help. With Harry Maguire’s future uncertain, he could help replace the England international both on and off the pitch.

Meanwhile, Barcelona are also looking to bolster their backline, which has been very inconsistent this term. They haven’t coped well with Inigo Martinez’s departure, and Ronald Araujo hasn’t been at his best either. A leader like Bastoni could change the game for their team.

While the Gunners already have one of the best defensive pairs in the Premier League, Mikel Arteta wants to further bolster his backline. He wants to strengthen his rotation by signing someone like Bastoni. However, convincing him about a rotational role certainly won’t be easy.

Manchester United are leading the race for Bastoni

All three clubs are keen on his signature, but the report suggests Manchester United have leapfrogged the competition. They have placed themselves as front-runners to sign the 26-year-old if he decides to move on from Inter Milan.

The Italian giants are reluctant to let him leave and will only sanction his departure if a substantial offer arrives. The finances certainly make it very difficult for Barcelona. United and Arsenal have the financial strength to get a deal over the line.

While the Gunners remain in the background for now, United are well placed to sign him. They want to rebuild their backline with a proven leader, and Bastoni seems to be a perfect fit for their project. He has all the qualities to succeed at Old Trafford, and his arrival will allow them to be a lot more comfortable in playing out from the back.