Lazio looking into winter agreement for Manchester United outcast

Serie A side Lazio are reportedly in the running to sign Matteo Darmian from Manchester United when the transfer window reopens in the New Year. The Italy international has managed just one competitive appearance for United since the season has started and he is currently deemed to surplus to requirements.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Lazio are among the top sides looking into a move for the Italy international, who is capable of playing across the defensive positions. Despite this, the club remain reluctant to match the defender’s £20m price tag, although the sum could reduce, should there be limited competition for the Italian’s signature.

At present, Darmian has eight months remaining on his existing deal at Old Trafford but his stay could be extended for another year, should United trigger the extension clause available on his contract. Based on this, United have the luxury of waiting until the summer before sanctioning his exit from the club but Darmian may push for a winter exit after being denied the exit door during the summer.

“Darmian was a regular feature for the Red Devils at right-back during the club’s pre-season where both Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young were unavailable.“ However, with the start of the new campaign, he managed to featureonly in the Premier League opener after “which he has dropped“ down the pecking order.

Aside from Darmian, the likes of Marcos Rojo, Phil Jones and Eric Bailly are also said to be fighting for their futures with the Old Trafford outfit and United could part ways with a couple of them with Mourinho keen on strengthening the central defensive department in January. United have made an average start to the current league season and they are currently with just 20 points after the opening 12 matches. They are presently 12 points behind table-toppers Manchester City.