Matteo Darmian could hold the key for one of Manchester City’s smartest summer transfers

Manchester United right-back Matteo Darmian has emerged as a target for Juventus as they consider replacements for Dani Alves.

United value their Italian right back at around £18million. The 27-year-old joined United in 2015 from Serie A side Torino for a fee of around £12.7 million. However, a string of injuries, coupled with the magnificent form of Antonio Valencia in the right back position have limited Darmian's opportunities in the United team. The Italian only made 18 Premier League appearances for United last term but did appear in the Europa League final. The Italian champions, Juventus, are braced to lose Dani Alves to Manchester City, and Darmian is believed to be at the top of their list of replacements for the Brazilian right back. According to Gazzetta Dello Sport, Juventus are now aiming to bring the Italian back to Turin as they look for a new signing to fill the void left by Alves at right-back. So City may have to wait until Juve get their man before they can finalise what would be a smart move for the former Barcelona defender. The news might also explain the recent rumours linking United with Benfica's Portuguese international Nelson Semedo. Semedo, a right back, could follow Victor Lindelöf in becoming Jose Mourinho's second signing from the Portuguese champions this summer.