Manchester United's second bid for Patrick Dorgou has been rejected by Lisi, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Head coach Ruben Amorim is seeking a left-back to fit into his system in the January transfer window but the Red Devils have failed in their quest so far.
Romano posted on X, formerly known as Twitter: “The Lecce board are insisting on a €40m bid for Patrick Dorgou to Manchester United or he will not be allowed to leave in January.
Manchester United's January transfer process is underway!
“The Italian club hopes to keep the player until the summer unless the evaluation is met. Manchester United's second approach is not enough to get it done yet.
Guardian report The second bonus fee is €10m higher than United's valuation of the player, but Amorim remains determined to secure the Danish international's signature. Negotiations are ongoing.
The 20-year-old Dorgu only made his debut last season. He has now made 52 Serie A appearances for Lecce.
Under Amorim, who is looking for players to complement his preferred 3-4-3 system, United have managed just six wins in 16 matches.
Manchester United remain active in the January transfer window
Despite financial constraints, United's transfer budget could be boosted by Anthony's expected loan move to Real Betis for the remainder of the season. The player is scheduled to travel to Seville for a medical examination. The La Liga side are believed to cover 84% of his £150,000-a-week salary.
In addition, United are open to bids worth €70m for Alejandro Garnacho, who may have played his final game for the club. Napoli have been linked however Chelsea are also showing interest in the winger.
And even still, Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca He remained coy about the situation on Friday, saying: “We are monitoring the market, and if something happens, we will take it into account. But with 10 days to go, we have not made any moves yet. At the moment, I am happy with the options we have – Pedro (Neto) and Noni ( Maduki (on the right), and Jadon (Sancho) on the left.
