According to Italian news source, DiMarzio, Manchester United have made an initial bid of a 15 Million to sign the Italian right back. Despite initial interest from Barcelona, United look poised to make an astute signing of the Italian international as they seek permanence at the Right-Back slot.
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Having contended with a whole host of names at right back, like Jones, Smalling, Rafael, McNair and Valencia. Manchester United are now seeking to add proven quality at right back, in the form of Darmian. Arguably one of the best right-backs in both the Serie-A and Italy, Darmian has plied his trade at Torino for the past four seasons. In those five years, Darmian has become a more complete and lethal full back, with the versatility to play anywhere across and back line, a quality that will fit in with van Gaal’s demands quite nicely.
At 25, he is hitting the peak age for most defenders. While England might prove a testing battleground, Italy are famed for producing high quality defensive talent, which is exactly what Darmian can be. His exploits have made him a starter in Antonio Conte’s national team, as well as a target for many top clubs.
Although he started his career as a centre-back, in recent years Darmian has played as a dynamic fullback on either flank; although he prefers the right. He is known for his good quality of offensive and defensive play, his tactical awareness, his pace, and his stamina, attributes which have led him to be compared to legendary Italian fullback Antonio Cabrini.
Manchester United could do very well with someone of his ability and experience, as injuries have resorted to them fielding nearly every right footed defender at the spot. Youngsters like McNair, who lack the tactical nous associated with the full back spot, where horribly exposed. The situation reached a surprising conclusion, when winger Antonio Valencia, was converted into a Right back, where he arguably played some of his best football all season.
The absence of regular full-backs has often compounded the pressure on the centre-backs, with Smalling being drawn out of position many times, in order to compensate. The experience and athleticism that Darmian offers could aid United greatly, as his record of fitness and discipline bode well for van Gaal’s future plans. His five goals last season also display his penchant for attacking, whenever the situation requires.
While the transfer is far from complete, United will look to expedite all processes, as having Darmian through the pre-season, will aid him in integrating with the side.
