Former Manchester United striker Giuseppe Rossi has hailed Villarreal defender Pau Torres amid transfer interest from his old club.
The 24-year-old has starred for Unai Emery's side this season, excelling once again in the Europa League in midweek as the Spanish outfit defeated United in the final after a penalty shootout.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's hunt for a central defender to partner Harry Maguire next season has begun and Torres is among those on the shortlist.
While United have held talks with the representatives of Real Madrid's Raphael Varane, the MEN understands that club chiefs viewed the Europa League final as Torres' final audition before deciding upon their top target.
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Torres is highly-rated following his performances this term and has another opportunity to impress during this summer's European Championship, having been selected as part of the Spain squad.
Now, ahead of a potential switch, former United striker Rossi has hailed the performances of the player who was rising through the youth ranks during his time at the club.
"We've seen young players like Pau, he's doing very, very well. He got selected to go with the national team for the first time. He is playing incredibly well. He's a very solid defender and the sky is the limit for him," he said.
Villarreal president Fernando Roig has already opened the door for a potential transfer this summer, having admitted he will not stand in his way of a suitable offer is presented and Torres is keen on a move.
Manchester City were interested in Torres last summer but their own defender search came to an end with the signing of Ruben Dias.
It is believed that Torres has a release clause of around €60m (£51.5m) in his contract, which is due to run until 2024.
