Manchester United are in the final stages of securing Lecce's Patrick Dorgu, aiming to finalize the transfer within the next 24 to 48 hours.
The Red Devils have been on the lookout for a new left wing-back, with Dorgu emerging as a prime candidate due to his potential and affordability compared to other targets like Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez and PSG’s Nuno Mendes.
United have made two bids for the 20-year-old Danish star, but both were turned down as they did not meet Lecce’s valuation of 40 million euros.
However, according to Fabrizio Romano, there’s optimism in the United camp. Romano has said, “Manchester United feel they can get Patrick Dorgu deal agreed in 24/48h! Confident and optimistic after further talks with new official bid coming soon”.
He also noted that while discussions have been positive, there is still work to be done.
United are looking to structure the deal with an initial payment of 35 million euros and additional bonuses amounting to 5 million euros. Dorgu has already given his approval to the move to Old Trafford.
Despite the excitement, not all feedback has been positive. Jens Fonnskov Olsen, Dorgu’s former coach at Denmark U19, has expressed reservations.
In an interview with Tipsbladet, Olsen said, “If I have to be a little cheeky, I hope he chooses something other than Manchester United right now. I don’t know if it’s a bad fit, but they’re just in a period where… I don’t know if you can afford to say no to United, but maybe somewhere where there’s a little more structure and where things fit in with his pace.”
On the transfer front, there’s a domino effect at play at United. If Alejandro Garnacho departs for Chelsea, it might pave the way for more signings, including the loan of Christopher Nkunku from Chelsea.
The funds from Garnacho’s transfer could help in meeting Dorgu’s price tag. Dorgu’s arrival might see Tyrell Malacia exiting on either a loan or a loan-to-buy arrangement.
Florian Plettenberg has also mentioned that United are “seriously considering” exercising the 20 million euro buy-back clause for Alvaro Carreras from Benfica, should the Dorgu deal fall through. Carreras has shown significant improvement in Portugal, drawing interest from other clubs like Barcelona after his performances in the Champions League.
This transfer window is shaping up to be a crucial one for Manchester United, with every hour counting towards reshaping their squad for the second half of the season.
