Manchester United Transfer News: Andrea Belotti Negotiations, Latest Rumours

Manchester United have reportedly opened negotiations with Torino regarding striker Andrea Belotti, and the Serie A side are holding out for his €100 million release clause. 

According to Tuttosport (h/t Charlotte Duncker of the Manchester Evening News), the Red Devils have started discussions with Torino and the forward's agent, Jorge Mendes, is said to be "in Turin to negotiate the move."

La Gazzetta dello Sport reported Torino had turned down a part-exchange offer from AC Milan for Belotti as they want his release clause—which can only be activated by clubs outside of Italy—to be met (h/t Duncker).

Belotti enjoyed an outstanding year, notching 28 goals and eight assists across all competitions. 

Per Squawka, of the 26 goals he scored in Serie A, 11 were with his right foot, five were with his left and 10 were with his head, which demonstrates his ability to find the net in a variety of situations and the strength of his all-around forward play.

He also created 55 chances for his team-mates. Only Paul Pogba created more at United last season—and only just, with 57.

Here's a look at some of his highlights:

United are crying out for more firepower, and for Belotti to enjoy such a prolific campaign in a team that only finished ninth in Serie A is a testament to his ability. Added creativity in the final third will never go unappreciated, either.

GianlucaDiMarzio.com's David Amoyal believes he would suit the Red Devils, but the strength of Torino's position will allow them to stay firm on wanting his release clause to be met:

The 23-year-old looks to be an outstanding prospect, and it's unlikely United will be able to bring in attackers of the required level cheaply this summer, but the club will need to evaluate its options carefully if he can't be acquired for lower than his enormous release clause.

He may still be worth pursuing given United's pressing need, but for that kind of price, there may be other players available who have proved themselves over a longer period—Belotti's previous best goal return for a season was 12.