SHEFFIELD UNITED ace Sander Berge is being chased by Italian clubs Atalanta and Napoli – but they would like him on loan first.
The Norwegian attacking midfielder, 23, wants away after missing much of the relegation campaign with injury.
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Yet that absence means it is hard for a buyer to come in with a huge bid.
He is now fit but both Atalanta and Napoli would rather see Berge play in Serie A first before they sign him full-time for around £30million.
There has also been Premier League interest and if a ‘loan with a view to buy’ option came up that may open doors.
Arsenal have been keeping a close eye on the Blades ace with a view to bolstering their midfield ranks ahead of Granit Xhaka’s possible departure.
Berge is reportedly unenthusiastic about the prospect of playing in the Championship and is believed to have a £35m release clause in his contract.
Arsenal, who finished eighth last term, are looking to strengthen their midfield options with wantaway star Xhaka heavily linked with a move to Roma.
Earlier this month it was reported the North London giants had a £17.2 m bid for Berge rejected by Bramall Lane officials.
Berge only joined the Yorkshire side from Genk in January 2020 for a club-record figure of £22m and are seemingly unwilling to take a loss.
The 24-cap Norway star scored once and added one assist in 15 Premier League games last season.
Berge was out of action between December 2020 and May 2021 following surgery on an injured hamstring.
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