Serie A man’s penalty miss may hasten Manchester United move

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Alessio Cerci missed an injury time penalty for Torino, meaning the Granata missed out on the Europa League, something that could speed up his exit.

Torino may be coming off the back of arguably their most successful season in recent memory, but their failure to secure European football for next season will undoubtedly be tinged with some sadness, given that it is likely to speed up the departures of several key stars.

And in something of a bitter twist, it was the fateful spot-kick of Alessio Cerci, one of il Granata’s star players this season and someone already linked with a move to Manchester United, that may prompt the summer exodus.

Twice against Fiorentina on Sunday Torino had fought back from a goal down in a game they had to win in order to secure European football next term.

Then in the 94^th minute, something incredible happened: the Turin club won a penalty. And not just any spot kick either – this was a kick that could all but seal their return to the top-table of the European game.

It was fitting that Cerci, so often the star for Il Toro this term, should be the man to step up and secure a 14^th goal of the season against the very club that had previously cast him out, two years ago, as a troublemaker.

But instead the Italian, who has made the Azzurri’s provisional squad for the World Cup, would remain on unlucky no.13, missing with a tame effort as Torino’s wait for a return to Europe continued.

Now, with the summer in full swing, talk of Cerci and a move to Old Trafford looks set to resume.

Back in March, Tuttosport claimed the 26-year-old was likely to depart Turin this summer, having turned down a new contract at the club.

With time running out on his current deal, the decision is likely to force Torino to sell the player, rather than let him leave on a free.

And the failure to secure European football is only likely to hasten his exit, with Manchester United thought to be among those leading the race for his signature.

The Red Devils may look to complete a deal soon though, with any star turns at the World Cup only likely to increase the price on the 26-year-old’s head.