Wednesday 8 July 2015 17:00, UK
Manchester United are close to completing the signing of Torino defender Matteo Darmian after agreeing a four-your contract with the player, according to Sky sources.
Sky Sports News HQ understands United are finalising the deal, worth around just under £13m, but the paperwork has yet to be signed.
The final details of the deal are being negotiated and one of those involves paying a fee to AC Milan, who developed the player.
The 25-year-old Italy international was with Milan from 2001 to 2010 before being sold to Palermo and they are due roughly five per cent of the player's transfer fee which amounts to around £287,000.
With the transfer nearing completion, Darmian has written a letter to Torino fans wishing them farewell and thanking them for their support.
"The day has come, after three fantastic years to leave Turin. Wonderful three years where I learned to play, have fun and I learned above all to live!," Darmian wrote in www.torinogranata.it
"Right now I have no words, I’m just crying. Remember that I leave Turin for a future career choice, not because I am evil. Turin will always be my second home, I never tire of her (Turin). I wish good luck to all the team and the fans.
"I gave all of my heart and my soul. It was an honour to play for Torino and also be in a few games the captain!"
Darmian will become United’s second signing of the summer following the capture of Memphis Depay from PSV Eindhoven and they have also been in contact with Southampton regarding the potential transfer of Morgan Schneiderlin.
A £20m bid was made for the player by United two weeks ago but rejected by the Saints, who value the French international at £30m.
Southampton boss Ronald Koeman spoke earlier this week of his desire to get any potential deal done as quickly as possible.
"Two weeks ago, we had a Manchester United bid. It wasn't enough, wasn't serious, and there have been no more bids," he said.
"Everybody knows the situation. I understand the player - if he can get a good move to a big one I can understand it.
"But I hope that if there is any business it will be soon, because it's best for the player and best for us. We have to prepare for what we'll do if we sell the player."
