Quagliarella: United have increased offer

Sampdoria striker Fabio Quagliarella has revealed he could be tempted by a move to Manchester United this summer.

United reportedly made a £10m offer last month to sign the Italy international and, according to Quagliarella, the Red Devils have now increased that amount in the hope of winning the race against top Serie A clubs who are also keen to acquire his services.

When asked about United’s offer, Quagliarella told Gazzetta dello Sport: “It seems a serious offer, they have raised it and it is an important figure.

“Manchester United are a big deal and if it ended up going that way, I would gladly join the Premier League. It is a fascinating and beautiful competition.”

Quagliarella joined Samp last summer from Ascoli, although his sporting rights are co-owned by both the Genoa club and Udinese.

The 23-year-old made 35 league appearances for Sampdoria last season, scoring 13 goals, and his performances earned him a call-up to the national team, where earlier this month he scored his first two Azzurri goals during Italy’s 2-0 Euro 2008 qualifying win against Lithuania.

Samp have confirmed only an “extraordinary offer” would see Quagliarella, who is under contract until 2010, leave the club this summer.

Quagliarella insists his first choice would be to remain in Serie A and keep his place in the national team.

“I am really happy at Sampdoria,” added the striker. “I would prefer to remain in Italy, having continuity and having the trust of (national team coach Roberto) Donadoni.”