Manchester United have identified Torino full back Matteo Darmian as a January target. United are reportedly willing to offer £15m for the 24-year old.
Earlier reports indicated that Louis Van Gaal had agreed a deal with Barcelona to bring in Dani Alves as a free transfer in next June, however, the Italian international could provide a cheaper and better option for Manchester United. Darmian’s natural position is at right back, but he has been used as a left back and wing back on either side, which will be an added benefit to Van Gaal as the Dutchman has often used the 3-5-2 system this season.
Darmian has made 6 appearance in the Serie A so far and has caught the eye of Van Gaal in those games. He is contracted till 2017 and will definitely entertain the prospect of joining Manchester United from Torino as he’ll stand a good chance of making it into the 1st team. United’s current right back Rafael Da Silva has been in poor form, but has looked slightly better in the last few games. Van Gaal considered selling the Brazilian in the summer due to his injury record, but Rafael stayed on and proved his fitness. The addition of Darmian will also add competition to the squad.
Van Gaal has tried a number of formations this season but his defence still hasn’t convinced. The likes of Antonio Valencia, Ashley Young and Rafael have been deployed as right backs and right wing backs, but it hasn’t worked out so far. Darmian is used to playing in those positions, so his versatility will be of good use if United do manage to sign him.
Darmian graduated from the Milan academy in 2006 but failed to make an impression with the Rossoneri and was sold to Palermo in 2010 where he made 11 appearances. It was enough to earn him a move to Torino, and since moving to the Turin club in 2011, he has made 101 appearances.