Manchester United are at risk of missing out on Lecce star Patrick Dorgu after Napoli made a late attempt to hijack the deal, a report has claimed.

United want a new left-back and, with a deal for Paris Saint-Germain’s Nuno Mendes appearing unlikely, the focus has turned to 20-year-old Dorgu.

Dorgu has long been of interest to a number of top sides but United’s pursuit appears to have awoken potential rivals, with Gianluca Di Marzio stating Napoli are looking to get a deal for the Denmark international over the line quickly.

Napoli see Dorgu as more of a winger – 14 of his 22 appearances this season have come in forward positions – and are chasing a deal which would see the 20-year-old remain with Lecce on loan until the end of the season.

Valued at €40m (£33.8m), it is said that Napoli are “very close” to an agreement over Dorgu, but things could change dramatically if United offer a similar fee as he is keen to join the Red Devils this month.

Dorgu, a self-confessed Chelsea fan, has publicly confirmed he dreams of playing in the Premier League and has admitted his connection to the Blues would not stop him from joining another side in England’s top flight.

United are expected to speak with Dorgu’s agent alongside a number of other suitors, after which a decision on his future will be made.