Barcelona planning shock move for Manchester United star

Manchester United defender Matteo Darmian has been earmarked as a surprise transfer target for Barcelona as they seek to strengthen the left side of the defence.

The 29-year-old has been used sparingly by the Red Devils in the past few seasons and he managed just seven appearances across all competitions last term.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the Blaugrana are weighing up a move for the Italy international as they seek to pursue an effective option behind Jordi Alba at left-back.

Darmian, who is predominantly a right-back by trade, has shown on numerous occasions at Old Trafford that he is comfortable playing on the left side of the backline.

He has been linked with the likes of Inter Milan, AC Milan and Napoli in the past but none of the Serie A clubs have made an approach during the ongoing transfer window.

The former Torino man has been left out of the United travelling squad for the friendly against Kristiansund in Oslo, and that should give a clear indication that he will finally part ways with the club.

Manchester United are said to want a sum of around £12m to sanction Darmian's sale.