Manchester United have signed Torino defender Matteo Darmian for an undisclosed fee, reported to be £12.7 million (Dh72m). The 25-year-old Italy international has signed a four-year deal at Old Trafford, with the club having the option of a further year.
“It is a dream come true to be joining Manchester United,” he said. “I have loved the time that I have spent at Torino and I would like to thank the club and the fans for everything they have done for me.
“I am sure they can understand when the opportunity to join the biggest club in world came along it was something I had to do. To work with Louis van Gaal, a manager that has achieved so much in football, is such an exciting prospect.”
Darmian made 146 appearances for Torino since making his debut in 2011 and has 13 full international caps. He started all three of Italy’s matches at last year’s World Cup in Brazil.
“Matteo is a right-sided full-back with the versatility of also being able to play on the left,” said United boss Van Gaal. “He is a strong defender and has the ability to go forward in the attacking positions which is a fantastic attribute to have and much needed in the fast rhythm of the Premier League.
“Matteo will be a great addition to the team. I am delighted to welcome him to the club and look forward to working with him in the coming days.”
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His signing follows confirmation that a deal has been agreed with Bayern Munich for midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger to move to Old Trafford.
Darmian is United’s second summer signing following the arrival of £31m (Dh177m) winger Memphis Depay.
There has still been no resolution to any potential transfer deal with Real Madrid involving Spain defender Sergio Ramos and United goalkeeper David De Gea.
United have also had a bid rejected for Southampton’s France midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin, who has been left out of the Saints’ squad at the pre-season Audi Quattro Cup. Van Gaal’s side leave for a pre-season tour of the United States on Sunday.