Manchester United edge closer to signing Lecce defender Patrick Dorgu

Manchester United and Italian club Lecce have held productive discussions over a potential deal worth up to €35 million, including add-ons, for highly-rated defender Patrick Dorgu. Despite the progress, Lecce’s president, Saverio Sticchi Damiani, has reiterated the club’s reluctance to part ways with the talented player. However, the 20-year-old Danish international is reportedly eager for an agreement to be reached.

The Red Devils are focused on strengthening their wing-back options as manager Ruben Amorim continues to implement his preferred 3-4-3 formation at Old Trafford. Dorgu, who has recently emerged as United’s top target, fits the profile of a versatile, attack-minded full-back capable of thriving in Amorim’s system.

Dorgu has been a standout performer in Serie A this season, starting 22 of Lecce’s 23 matches. The 185 cm tall defender has also demonstrated his offensive capabilities, scoring three goals and providing one assist from his position. Additionally, his ability to play as a winger makes him a flexible asset for any squad.

United made an initial bid of €20 million plus €5 million in add-ons, but Lecce rejected the offer. During subsequent informal talks, United increased their proposal to €30 million. However, Lecce remain firm on their valuation of €40 million for the Danish defender, whose contract runs until 2029.

With negotiations still ongoing, United are weighing their alternatives. Should they fail to secure Dorgu’s services, the club is prepared to activate an €18 million buy-back clause for Benfica’s Álvaro Fernández. This clause, valid until 2026, offers the Premier League side a cost-effective fallback option to bolster their wing-back department.

Euro Football Rumours

Dorgu’s potential move to Old Trafford would mark another significant step in his burgeoning career. The 20-year-old has already earned four caps for Denmark, further underlining his credentials as one of Europe’s most promising young defenders. His development in Serie A has made him a coveted talent, with Lecce benefiting from his consistent performances on both ends of the pitch.

For Manchester United, securing Dorgu would address their need for dynamic wide players capable of complementing Amorim’s tactical vision. While Lecce remain determined to retain their star, Dorgu’s openness to the move could play a key role in facilitating a deal.

As discussions continue, United fans will be eager to see if the club can finalize the transfer and add another talented youngster to their ranks. Should Lecce’s demands prove insurmountable, the club’s pursuit of Álvaro Fernández offers an intriguing alternative as the January transfer window edges closer.

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Would Patrick Dorgu be a good signing for Manchester United?

Bologna-born Giuseppe Bianchi has spent more than a decade living in Rome and writing about Italian football, Spanish football and the Premier League for various Italian football portals and now he writes about European football for Euro Football Rumours. He's been thinking about football transfers pretty much nonstop since the 1990 FIFA World Cup in Italy. Aside from writing, he likes to spend his time fishing and rock climbing.