Inter Milan will offer Nicola Barella the captain’s armband and a new contract worth €4m (£3.4m) a year to prevent him from leaving the Serie A champions, according to Calciomercato.com.

The Italian website reports that Manchester United, Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid all made enquiries about the Italian international in the summer but no club tabled a formal bid for the player.

Barella was outstanding as Inter won the league title last season, whilst he was also impressive as Italy won the European Championships back in July. It is, therefore, not surprising that United are taking a keen interest in him.

The Red Devils are believed to be looking at strengthening their options in midfield, with the 24-year-old undoubtedly someone that has been scouted considering his superb form.

Barella is, however, reportedly valued at around €70m (£60m), while the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal have also been mentioned as potential suitors for the Italian over the past year.