Barcelona consider shock move for Manchester United outcast

Barcelona have earmarked Manchester United Matteo Darmian as a shock transfer target this summer, reports ESPN.

The Spanish giants want to sign a new left-back to provide competition for places with Jordi Alba but have been forced to assess alternatives after failing to nail down their first-choice targets.

Ernesto Valverde’s side started the summer with David Alaba in mind but Bayern Munich have not even entertained initial talks.

Barcelona have been locked in talks with Real Betis for Spain Under-21 international Junior Firpo but are not willing to match his £24m valuation.

The LaLiga champions are now considering cheaper options and have remarkably identified Darmian as a potential target.

The 29-year-old will be available for a cut-price fee this summer due to the fact he has entered the final 12 months of his current United deal and has no future at Old Trafford.

United have unsuccessfully tried to sell Darmian for the last few years and this summer represents their last opportunity to recoup any meaningful fee on their £12.7m investment.

Darmian joined United in the summer of 2015 during Louis van Gaal’s reign but has been a bit-part player ever since.

The Italy international has dropped completely out of favour under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and did not even travel to Norway for United’s upcoming pre-season friendly with Kristiansund.

Darmian’s highlight in a United shirt came in their Europa League final win over Ajax in 2017 when the versatile full-back turned in his best ever display for the club.

Darmian has started just 10 Premier League matches over the last two seasons and United have won just three of those game.