Matteo Darmian’s future at Manchester United remains uncertain just an year after he made the switch to Old Trafford. Barcelona are interested in landing the versatile defender in the summer transfer window, reports Spanish publication Mundo Deprotivo.
The Italian international joined the Red Devils from Torino for a reported fee of €18 million (£15.1 million) last summer. He started the 2015-16 campaign on a bright note, but lost his form half way through the season. In addition to this, injuries also did not help him to settle down in his debut season in England.
Darmian was signed by Louis van Gaal and the latter was allowed to leave the club just days after he guided United to the FA Cup triumph. The Dutchman has been replaced by Jose Mourinho and the former Chelsea manager is willing to shape up his squad by allowing a few of his players leave the club this summer.
United man has emerged as the main target for the La Liga champions as Luis Enrique is in the market for a full-back. Barcelona allowed Brazil international Dani Alves leave the Camp Nou and the right-back completed his switch to Juventus last month.
The former Torino defender is a versatile defender, who is comfortable in both the right-back and the left-back position. Darmian was a part of the Italy squad in the Euro 2016 and Antonio Conte’s side were eliminated from the European championship after they lost to Germany on penalties in the third quarter-final.
The Italian defender earlier admitted that he is yet to hear from the former Inter Milan and Real Madrid manager as his future at Old Trafford remains uncertain.
“Today I am a United player. I have a contract and I think I will continue next season. But I have not heard from Mourinho,” Darmian explained, as quoted by the Manchester Evening News.
Mundo Deportivo also suggest that Barcelona have alternatives to fill in the full-back position. AC Milan’s Mattia De Sciglio, the Brazilian Wendell, who plays for Bayer Leverkusen and Fabian Johnson of Borussia Mönchengladbach are in the list, while United defender remains as the top target.
A section of United fans would be hoping that Darmian will be given a second chance to prove his worth at Old Trafford. Should Mourinho decide to sanction his sale, it would be ideal for the Portuguese tactician to allow him leave only after the Red Devils bring in a new player in the current transfer window.
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