Manchester United have completed the signing of Denmark international Patrick Dorgu from Italian club Lecce. The 20-year-old defender has agreed to a five-and-a-half-year contract at Old Trafford. The transfer is valued at £25 million (€30 million), with an additional £4.1 million (€5 million) possible through performance-based add-ons.
Dorgu has been a key figure for Lecce, making 57 senior appearances since debuting at the beginning of last season. Having joined their youth setup in 2022, he quickly progressed into the first team. Reflecting on his move, he expressed his excitement: “Becoming a Manchester United player is an incredible honor for me and my family. I am eager to start working with Ruben Amorim, whose vision for the team and my development convinced me that this is the right place to achieve my ambitions.”
Squad Changes and Transfer Developments
Dorgu’s arrival marks United’s second defensive signing of the transfer window, following Ayden Heaven’s move from Arsenal. The England Under-19 international was brought in earlier this month as the club looks to strengthen its backline.
Meanwhile, discussions regarding Tyrell Malacia’s potential loan switch to Benfica have collapsed, meaning the Dutch full-back will remain at Old Trafford for now. Additionally, striker Marcus Rashford is set to undergo a medical with Aston Villa ahead of a loan move. Rashford has been out of action since being omitted from the squad for the Manchester derby on 12 December by head coach Ruben Amorim.
A Bright Future at Old Trafford
Dorgu made his senior international debut for Denmark in a UEFA Nations League match against Switzerland in September, marking the occasion by scoring with his first touch in a 2-0 victory. His impressive performances have drawn attention, and United’s technical director, Jason Wilcox, believes he will be a valuable addition to the squad.
“Patrick is an exciting young talent with strong defensive and attacking qualities. His adaptability and dedication will make him an important member of Ruben Amorim’s squad,” Wilcox said. “He has already made great strides early in his career, and at just 20 years old, we are confident that he will continue to develop under our coaching staff.”
