Torino confirms Matteo Darmian transfer to Manchester United

Torino manager Giampiero Ventura has confirmed that defender Matteo Darmian is now officially a Manchester United player.

The news was broken by Sky Sports journalist Fabrizio Romano this evening.

“Darmian will play in the Champions League with Manchester United,” Ventura told Sky Italia. “Matteo deserves a top team and always dreamed of playing in the Champions League, so now that dream will be realized.

“We worked with Darmian for many years and it’s only right he should be given the chance to make his Champions League dream come true.

“A sale can happen, the important thing is that we’re able to plan an even stronger squad in the future. We’re on the right track and as always the objective is to earn a place in Europe.”

It had been widely reported that United were close to completing the signing of the Italy international, after Darmian agreed a four-year deal with the English club. However, officials at both clubs have stayed tight-lipped regarding the transfer.

United are believed to have agreed a fee of £12.7 million with Torino, which could rise to £14.4 million on the player’s performances.

AC Milan, Darmian’s first club, are also due to receive around £287,000 as part of a five percent sell-on clause.

While both clubs remain silent, Darmian himself wrote 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.

“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!”

United are expected to officially confirm Darmian’s signing tomorrow, and the 25-year-old will fly to Manchester on Friday to complete his medical.

The club has already announced that manager Louis van Gaal will hold a press conference on Friday to unveil new signing Memphis Depay. However, it is not known whether or not Darmian will also be unveiled at that time.