Italy defender Matteo Darmian has left Torino to join Manchester United on a four-year deal with the option of an additional 12 months, Goal.com reports.
The transfer sees the fullback end a four-year association with the Serie A club and follows United’s capture of midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger from Bayern MunichĀ earlier on Saturday.
Darmian, 25, told United’s official website: “It is a dream come true to be joining Manchester United.Ā 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.”
Van Gaal added: “Matteo is a right-sided fullback with the versatility of also being able to play on the left.
“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.Ā Matteo will be a great addition to the team. I am delighted to welcome Matteo to the club and look forward to working with him in the coming days.”
Torino announced first that the deal had been completed, a club statement read: “Torino Football Club announces that it has sold to Manchester United, outright, the rights of the player Matteo Darmian.
“President Urbano Cairo would like to thank Matteo Darmian for the seriousness, commitment and professionalism he has demonstrated in the last few years.Ā From President Cairo to the youngest of the youth teams, all of Torino hopes Matteo has the best satisfaction for this extraordinary experience.”
Darmian has 13 caps for Italy and played in all three of his country’s gamesĀ at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
