Fulham plan January move for Manchester United defender

Premier League strugglers Fulham are reportedly planning a winter approach to pursue the services of Matteo Darmian from Manchester United.

The Italy international has endured a tough season with the Red Devils this term and Wednesday's league appearance against Arsenal was only his third of the campaign.

According to Tuttomercatoweb, the Red Devils are prepared to sanction his sale when the transfer window reopens but only if his suitors are able to match the £13m valuation.

It is added that the Cottagers are leading the race for the former Torino man but they would only fancy a short-term loan agreement with the option to buy next summer.

Aside from Fulham, the likes of Napoli and Inter Milan have been linked with the versatile defender but neither seem prepared to match United's price tag with the Italian's contract expiring in 18 months' time.

Darmian earned a rare appearance in the left wing-back position against Arsenal in midweek but he could drop to the bench for the weekend game against Fulham with Ashley Young having served his domestic ban.