Como boss Cesc Fabregas has addressed the speculation surrounding Manchester United target Assane Diao.
The Senegal international has been spectacular for the Serie A new boys since joining in an ambitious January deal. Thanks to their wealthy owners, Como have been able to spend significant money in the market, paying €12 million for Diao.
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It was a deal that has worked out well for everyone involved. The money generated allowed his former side Real Betis to loan Antony from Man Utd, while Diao himself has been spectacular in Italy.
The 19-year-old has so far scored six times and provided one assist in 13 outings for Como, who now look to have overcome the worst of their relegation fears.
Diao’s impact hasn’t gone unnoticed, and he has been increasingly linked with a swift departure. Recent reports have suggested that Man Utd could look to bring in the versatile teenager in the summer as they look to bolster their frontline.
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Fabregas on Man Utd interest in Diao
Speaking at his press conference ahead of Como’s match with Torino, head coach Fabregas, who is himself attracting attention from RB Leipzig, was forced to address the speculation surrounding Diao.
In keeping with his previous comments, Fabregas insisted that Como are looking to build a project that is attractive to young players but admitted that the Serie A side would at least have to consider a sale should Man Utd, or any other club, offer big money.
“We are trying to go for young, talented players who were not playing: they do well here and obviously, their value increases,” Fabregas explained. “There is no mentality of speculating and selling, they come here to grow and improve the team.
“Then obviously, Manchester can come and ask for Diao by offering €40m, but it is not a given that he will leave. The objective is to create a path with players who are serviceable to the project and work with them. Obviously, the value increases, but the important thing is that they are the right players for us.
“I keep saying that two years ago, we were far from what the club’s ambition is. Now there is discipline, culture and respect for work. Once this is done, then we talk about football.
“We need to create the foundations, to have a great structure. I am proud of this. Something is missing, but little by little we are adapting well, the players are all acquiring the same mentality. However, we are far from what we want to do.”
