Italian media outlet, Calciomercato, has claimed that Italian giants, Inter Milan are on top of the queue of clubs who are willing to sign Manchester United right back, Mattel Darmian. The 26 year old, who is on a £60k-a-week package, has struggled for game time under Jose Mourinho and would be interested in a move back to his homeland. The former Torino man’s signature is being pursued by the likes of Juventus, AC Milan, Napoli and Inter, but it is believed that the Nerrazurri have agreed personal terms with the full back, as per the same report.
The Italian giants are looking for an experienced right back, and they feel Darmian fits the bill perfectly. Inter have been awful this season, and have just appointed Stefano Pioli, after sacking Frank de Boer earlier in the month.
Darmian joined the Red Devils in the summer of 2015 on a four year deal. He was expected to provide competition for Antonio Valencia, but struggled to adapt to the intensity and physicality of the English game. The AC Milan youth product is a right back by trade, equally adept at playing as a wing back.
He is known for his commitment and bravery on the pitch, crossing and the typical Italian no-nonsense mantra of defending. Rumours circulating would suggest that Jose Mourinho and the board are willing to let him leave on a permanent transfer, as they have been impressed by his professionalism even while not playing.
He played in the 3-1 win over Swansea over the weekend, delivering a solid performance. That performance, though, may not be enough to keep him long term at the club. Injuries to Valencia and the loss of form of Luke Shaw may well put him back in the first team in the nearest future, though, this may not likely sway the decision of Jose Mourinho about his long term future at the club.
United fought off competition from the likes of Southampton and Everton to sign him last summer, and it may be interesting to see whether these two clubs may go for him to free him from his Manchester United agony. He may also want to stay in England and prove his doubters wrong about his ability.
A move away seems like the most logical thing to do for the progress of his career.
By Dave Marshall
