Torino sporting director Gianluca Patrachi has confirmed that Manchester United are one of a number of sides interested in centre-back Angelo Ogbonna.

The 24-year-old has come to prominence in recent seasons and was a member of the Italy squad which took part at Euro 2012 after impressing manager Cesare Prandelli.

Ogbonna also featured in the recent friendly against England and is now pushing to become a regular in the Italy side.

Angelo Ogbonna
Ogbonna training with Buffon whilst on international duty with Italy [Reuters] Reuters

Having come through the youth ranks at Torino to make more than 120 appearances for the Serie A side, Ogbonna signed a new contract over the summer designed to keep him at the club until 2016.

However, Petrachi has revealed that Manchester United have sent scouts to watch the defender in action this season, whilst also warning that the club would only look to sell if an offer of £16million arrived.

"I can guarantee that there are observers of many foreign clubs who follow our games, including United's scouts," Petrachi told tuttomercatoweb.com, as reported on Sky Sports.

"Most of the time they come just to see Ogbonna because he is a player who has great potential.

"Last year we refused £10million for him, but it is clear that he is worth more than £16million.

"When an offer arrives, the final word will be up to the player. Angelo certainly has the desire to do better, but I believe he should continue to grow with Torino because his primary goal is to improve himself with our team."

United have had problems at centre-back this season, with injuries forcing Michael Carrick to play at the back in the opening Premier League game of the season.

Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic have both struggled with injuries in recent seasons, while Phil Jones and Chris Smalling are currently out of action.

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