Manchester United have started talks about signing Lecce CEO Patrick Dorgu.
The 20-year-old left-back is the subject of transfer discussions as United look to strengthen their position amid their struggles in the Premier League. Red Devils boss Ruben Amorim has been without a left-back since taking over the hotseat at Old Trafford and has instead deployed the likes of Diogo Dalot in the role.
The Athletic reports that negotiations are underway for Dorgu, who has scored three goals in Serie A this season. The full-back has played four times for Denmark and only signed a new contract in October that links him to Lecce until 2028.
United scouted Dorgu before Christmas, with the club keen to improve their options. Mirror Football understands that Leece rejected approaches from both Chelsea and Tottenham during the summer transfer window after both sides fell short of their valuations.
Lecce chief Pantaleo Corvino decided earlier this season to rule out a January sell-out. “A player like that obviously has admirers,” said Corvino.
“And for him there are certainly many, even abroad. But Dorgu will stay here and then we will talk about it in the summer because his fate is certain. The future is his.”
Claims in Italy suggest Liverpool are also in the market for Dorgu. The youngster is said to be lined up as a replacement for Andy Robertson.
United could see their desire for a left-back increase further as they consider a move for Tyrell Malacia. The Dutch defender returned to action this season after a serious injury, but failed to convince United boss Amorim enough to secure a regular place in the squad.
The 39-year-old coach has not yet been able to influence United's transfer activities and United will likely need sales in the coming weeks to make any significant moves. Amorim has already identified areas he would like to improve in, including being a left-footed left wing-back, a long-term priority at Old Trafford.
Ahead of the transfer window, Amorim played down the work United could do this month. “We won't have that opportunity in January if we don't take it up [sell] some players,” he said.
“So you know the situation better than I do. So it's not like I come here and I can spend a lot of money on changing the whole team. You know the situation, so there's no point in talking about it.”