Manchester United’s minority shareholders Ineos have “set its sights” on recruiting Torino centre-half Alessandro Buongiorno, according to FootballTransfers.com.

The Red Devils have been looking at ways to strengthen the centre of defence and Ineos have identified the Italian international as a good addition for the first-team squad.

Interestingly enough, though, Buongiorno may yet make the switch to Nice: the French club that is fully owned by Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

Football Transfers claim that there is a possibility that the defender could end up at either club at this stage, with both potentially needing reinforcements at the back.

What do United fans need to know about Buongiorno?

The 24-year-old came through the youth ranks at Torino. He is left-footed, meaning he can cover at left-back if needed.

Buongiorno’s performances have also led to international recognition. The defender received his first cap for Italy in June last year, before making his first start in his second appearance, playing in a crucial European Championship qualifier against Ukraine.

Despite his burgeoning reputation, Torino could sell him for around €30m (£26m), which would make him a cost-effective solution for United, who are struggling to stay within Financial Fair Play regulations. Unsurprisingly, though, that price tag has attracted interest from other teams, with both Chelsea and West Ham having been linked in recent weeks as well.

Other centre-backs have also been targeted

The likes of Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, Lille’s Leny Yoro, Benfica’s Antonio Silva, Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo, Sporting Lisbon’s Goncalo Inacio and Bayer Leverkusen’s Edmond Tapsoba have all been on United’s radar until recently.

However, the club’s targets could well change drastically now that Ineos are involved. Football operations are expected to be revamped and that could lead to changes in the scouting department. The interest of Buongiorno could be the first sign of this change in priorities.