Sources close to the deal have said that Darmian could sign for United within the next 48 hours, with the 25-year old likely to agree a four-year deal. Although something of an unknown in the English league, Darmian has been impressing in Serie A this season and has already racked up 13 appearances for his national side.

 

The Italian has been known to play across the defence but looks most comfortable as a right back or right-sided centre back. Followers of the enigmatic van Gaal will be familiar with the fact that the Dutchman loves a versatile defender – look no further than Daley Blind – however, at nearly six feet in height Darmian also offers an imposing presence, which is currently lacking in Antonio Valencia and Rafael, the club’s first choice right back options. 

 

Darmian’s transfer would be United’s second signing of the summer window following the acquisition of Memphis Depay, but could stymie a number of other potential transfers including an approach for Everton defender, Seamus Coleman. Real Madrid’s Sergio Ramos has also been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford, however it is highly likely that the rumour has been instigated by agent Rene Ramos, as part of an intelligent game of brinksmanship to try and engineer an improved contract for the Spanish star. 

 

The summer transfer rumour mill has been working overtime in recent days, and it looks like one-time Juventus target Robin van Persie will be heading to Turkey to join Fenerbahçe. According to Sky Italia, a deal has been struck between the two clubs, with Juventus out of the running having already signed Mario Mandzukic from Atletico Madrid. 

 

Following the departure of Carlos Tevez to Boca Juniors, Massimiliano Allegri has bolstered Juventus’ attacking options by bringing in the aforementioned Mandzukic but also the promising youngster Simone Zaza and Paulo Dybala. However, the main priority for Juventus this summer is undoubtedly the need to hang on to their star midfielders Arturo Vidal and Paul Pogba. 

 

It has been reported that the former Manchester United star Pogba is set to reject out of hand any approach by Manchester City, despite the promise of a bumper contract, as Barcelona are interested in his services. The Catalan side is currently banned from signing players until 2016, after breaking FIFA regulations with regards to the transfers of young players, but as shown in their deal with Arda Turan this week, FIFA’s ban seemingly doesn’t stop Barcelona from reaching agreements for future transfers. 

 

One French enforcing midfielder who is however certain to light up Serie A next season, is the former Monaco star, Geoffrey Kondogbia, who signed for Internazionale for a fee in the region of €30 million last month. Kondogbia will be remembered by Arsenal fans as one of those who orchestrated the Londoners’ demise in the Champions League round of 16 last season, and Inter fans will hope he can provide more of the same during this campaign.