Manchester United are set to launch a bid of £14m for Torino defender Matteo Darmian, according to reports.
The Red Devils are looking to boost their defence and are specifically searching for a right-back to replace their Brazilian defender Rafael.
With make-shift right-back Antonio Valencia becoming the club's first choice in the position, Darmian has been identified as a possible target to challenge the Ecuadorian, especially as the club may be in the Champions League next season if they can win their qualifier.
Darmian on his way to United
Darmian, who can play in any position across the defence, has emerged as a target for Europe's biggest clubs, such as Arsenal, Bayern Munich and Napoli after impressing for Torino once again last season.
With Louis van Gaal looking to off-load Rafael, United have been linked with right-backs all around Europe during the transfer window so far, with Nathaniel Clyne and Seamus Coleman reportedly favoured by United.
As Liverpool have signed Clyne and Everton seeming to be reluctant to let go of Coleman, United have had to broaden their horizons and identify potential targets across Europe's other leagues
United move could be in doubt
Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio claims that United are ready to bid £14m for the defender, however van Gaal has been warned by United's chief scout Jim Laylor not to move for the defender.
Lawlor reportedly told the United manager: "He is no better than the players we currently have and I don't see any room for improvement."
The full-back, who won the Champions League with AC Milan back in 2007, is tied to a contract at Torino until 2017 and the Italian outfit want £14.3m for the defender.
The asking price was too steep for Italian rivals Napoli, which subsequently put them off making any potential move for the right-back.
The price would certainly not be a a hurdle for United, however Lawlor's advice may put Van Gaal off making a move for the Italian.