Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is interested in signing highly-rated Inter Milan centre-back Alessandro Bastoni, according to a new transfer rumour.

The Lowdown: Bastoni shining at Inter

The 23-year-old has emerged as arguably one of the best Italian defenders of his generation, already becoming a key figure for a strong Inter side.

Bastoni has 130 appearances to his name for the Nerazzurri, playing eight times in Serie A so far this season and also winning 16 caps for European champions Italy.

With United possibly looking at further defensive reinforcements given the lack of quality depth behind Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez, an exciting update has emerged.

The Latest: Man Utd eyeing up move

According to reports in Europe [via Sport Witness], Ten Hag personally wants to acquire Bastoni's signature, while the player himself 'gives the feeling of needing a club with higher aspirations'.

The United manager reportedly has a 'great obsession' with the Italian and has asked 'for an effort' from the club to sign him.

The Verdict: Outstanding potential signing

Bastoni looks like a superb talent with a massive future ahead of him, so he could be an exceptional signing for United if they could get a deal over the line.

With Varane and Harry Maguire turning 30 next year, and the latter completely out of sorts, the Inter man could come in as a long-term partner for Lisandro Martinez.

According to BBC writer Premier League Panel on Twitter, Bastoni is developing into one of the 'world's best' in his position. He also boasts an 88.6% pass completion rate in the league this season, which suggests he would suit Ten Hag's progressive style of play.