Manchester United are trying to get some business done before the January transfer window.
That will involve outgoings with Antony set to join Real Betis on loan for the remainder of the season.
Ruben Amorim will also want to make at least one addition to his team after a struggling start to life as United’s head coach, with the Reds sat in the bottom half of the Premier League table.
One area Amorim will want to strengthen is the left wing-back spot. In the manager’s 3-4-2-1 system, marauding wing-backs are crucial and the current squad lacks in that department.
It doesn’t help Amorim that Luke Shaw has missed most of the season due to injury. He has had to deploy Diogo Dalot at left wing-back as a result.
To try solve the issue, United entered talks to sign Patrick Dorgu from Lecce.
The 20-year-old has impressed in Sere A and Ineos love the idea of signing Dorgu because it would be akin to the Leny Yoro signing, another talent for the future.
Patrick Dorgu has Manchester United wish
United held direct talks with Dorgu’s representatives this week.
Matt Hargreaves, United’s director of negotiations, was present in Italy for discussions over Patrick Dorgu and Alejandro Garnacho, who is being targeted by Napoli.
It is understood that Lecce valued Dorgu at £34m, but the Italian outfit are not under pressure to sell one of its most prized assets.
Transfer expert Graeme Bailey has explained to United in Focus that Dorgu is confident of a move and is prepared to join United this month should an agreement be reached with Lecce.
United are trying to act astutely in the market by searching for the best possible deal, which is why they have offered £30m, despite the fact it doesn’t match Lecce’s asking price.
Dorgu is also attracting interest from Tottenham, although it would be their preference to strike a deal in the summer.
Meanwhile, the Reds are also considering other options at left wing-back, including Sporting CP’s Maxi Araujo.
Lecce won’t be happy with Dorgu transfer push
Lecce director Stichhi Damiani confirmed that meetings had been held with United, but he made it clear that they intend to keep the young Denmark international.
The comments didn’t come as a surprise but Lecce won’t be happy to hear Dorgu has urged United to make a move this month.
That suggests Dorgu is ready to join United but it’s down to whether the two clubs can reach an agreement before the transfer deadline on January 3.
Every player has a price and Lecce have made their proffered valuation known to United.
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