Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal is planning a swoop to sign Torino defender Matteo Darmian, according to a report.

The 63-year-old has outlined right-back as a position of need and has pinpointed the Italy international as his primary target to oust Rafael from his starting berth.

United are ready to offer £15m to secure the 24-year-old's signature when the transfer window reopens, as Van Gaal seeks to improve the quality in his backline after a shaky start to the season, reports The Mirror.

Darmian has made eight appearances for Italy since making his debut earlier this year.