Matteo Darmian to Manchester United: £12.7m defender expected to become second signing of the summer

Fee of around £12.7m understood to be agreed

Matteo Darmian (GETTY IMAGES)

Manchester United have made a move for Torino right-back Matteo Darmian, The Independent understands.

Louis van Gaal is desperate to resolve the problem position having failed to land his preferred target, Dan Alves, who signed a new contract with Barcelona.

It's been reported that a fee of around £12.7m has been agreed for 25-year-old Darmian who was a product of AC Milan's youth system and impressed for Cesare Prandelli's Italy side at last summer’s World Cup.

Manchester United leave for their tour of the United States on Monday and it's hoped that a deal can be completed by then.

Manchester United defender Rafael (Getty Images)

Last season, injury problems for Rafael saw a combination of Antonio Valencia, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling fill the position. Despite Rafael returning to fitness, Van Gaal is understood to harbour doubts about the Brazilian's long-term suitability. Galatasaray, Napoli and Fiorentina have been linked as possible destinations should he leave the club.