According to a recent report by Mundo Deportivo (translated by the Daily Express), Barcelona will consider orchestrating a move to bring Manchester United defender Matteo Darmian to the Nou Camp if they miss out on their primary target, Junior Firpo during this summer transfer period. The same source has claimed that Barca are looking to recruit the Italian full-back so that he can play as a back-up to Jordi Alba next season.
Darmian’s Struggles At The Theatre Of Dreams
The Italian defensive ace is surplus to requirements at Old Trafford so a change of scenery could help him resurrect his career in European football. The former AC Milan youth product was a sporadic presence in the Red Devils squad after he made only seven appearances across all competitions last season.
Darmian is in dire need of regular playing time, so a move to Catalunya might not be the best choice for him at this stage of his playing career. The Italian prospect should go to a club where he would be guaranteed regular first-team opportunities and not join the La Liga champions to play second-fiddle to Jordi Alba.
The 29-year-old is vastly experienced at the international level, having featured in 36 matches for Italy while scoring one goal for his nation thus far. He is versatile enough to operate in both full-back positions or play as a centre-half if required.
What Will The Italian Defender Add To Solskjaer’s Team?
Darmian is moderately paced and can make some intelligent runs down the right touchline. He is also a reliable presence at the back as he can make some well-timed challenges to intercept possession for his side. The Italian talent can link up play well with others around him and is not afraid to work hard for his team.
The addition of a capable defender like Darmian will undeniably improve Ernesto Valverde’s defensive options at the Nou Camp. He will not only add more competition for Jordi Alba but will also bolster the overall quality of the Catalans squad.
Final Verdict
The Spanish giants need a big squad if they are to compete for a quadruple next season. Hence, players like Darmian could help them challenge on fronts in the coming years.
