Juve set to sign United's Darmian

The Serie A champions are in the final stages of thrashing out a deal to sign Darmian in a £12million transfer. The left-back is reportedly eager to get the move wrapped up as soon as possible.

In return, Juve have made United aware of Mario Mandzukic's potential availability, after the striker expressed his desire for a new challenge away from the Italian league. 

However, they have been less than helpful in Jose Mourinho's pursuit of Alex Sandro. The defender was tipped for a move to Old Trafford, but instead has been offered a new contract by the Italian giants.

Chief executive Guiseppe Marotta said: ''Darmian? He can be part of the opportunities we are looking for, he is Italian and our hardcore must always be formed by players of our national team and who have greater ability to understand our habitat.''

''Mandzukic? When a player asks to go away we always try to satisfy him, just as the stimuli may have disappeared. We do not take any position at the moment, so Mandzukic is still Juventus.''

Marotta concluded: ''With the representatives of Alex Sandro we will see each other in the next week and I think it is desirable to prolong [his contract].''