Matteo Darmian 'nearing Manchester United exit'

Manchester United defender Matteo Darmian is reportedly closing in on a move to an Italian club.

Darmian, 29, only made seven appearances for the Red Devils during the 2018-19 campaign, while the full-back has not turned out for the club since the Manchester derby in April.

According to the Manchester Evening News, Darmian is nearing a return to Serie A having spent the last four years with United following a switch from Torino.

The Italy international made 39 appearances during his first season at Old Trafford, before featuring on a further 29 occasions during the 2016-17 season.

Darmian has struggled for action over the last two campaigns, though, and will see his current deal with the 20-time English champions expire at the end of the current season.

The report has not named the Italian side in question, although the likes of Juventus, Inter Milan and Napoli have all previously been credited with an interest.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side could also reportedly allow another defender to leave before the European transfer deadline, with Chris Smalling being linked with Roma.