Lecce Stand Firm Amid Manchester United Interest in Defender | OneFootball

Manchester United’s Pursuit of Patrick Dorgu Faces Resistance from Lecce

Lecce president Saverio Sticchi Damiani has made it clear that his club is resisting Manchester United’s attempts to lure Patrick Dorgu away in the January transfer window. The Italian outfit has already rejected a €30 million offer, but with United showing no signs of relenting, a renewed bid appears inevitable report Football Italia.

Dorgu’s Growing Value

Dorgu, at just 20 years old, has emerged as one of Serie A’s most promising young full-backs. Having already contributed three goals and an assist in 20 appearances this season, his attacking prowess, combined with his defensive solidity, has made him a prime target for European heavyweights. Lecce are well aware of his value, setting a €40 million asking price – a substantial increase from the mere €200,000 they paid Nordsjaelland in 2022.

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Lecce’s Stance on January Sales

Despite rejecting United’s bid, Lecce’s stance remains precarious. “We are trying to resist, as is logical, because it is in our interest to keep the players who are protagonists of this group. So far, our idea is to not sell anyone in January,” Damiani told Sky Sport Italia. However, with reports of an incoming €1.5 million deal for Danilo Veiga, Lecce’s squad planning suggests they may be preparing for an inevitable departure.

Will United Return with an Improved Offer?

While Lecce publicly insist on keeping Dorgu, they also expect United to test their resolve once more. The Old Trafford club’s interest in bolstering their full-back options is evident, and with Dorgu’s versatility allowing him to play on either flank, he fits the profile of a modern, attacking full-back. It would come as little surprise if United returned with an improved bid closer to Lecce’s valuation in the coming days.

Lecce’s resistance is admirable, but financial realities often dictate decisions in football. If United’s next bid edges closer to the €40 million mark, Dorgu may well be heading to the Premier League before the end of the month.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Manchester United fans will likely be expectant about this potential signing, given the club’s desperate need for defensive reinforcements. Dorgu, with his attacking flair and defensive versatility, could be the kind of signing that helps stabilise a fragile backline. However, there is always a risk in signing young players from abroad, as not every talent can immediately adapt to the demands of English football.

On the flip side, Lecce supporters might feel disappointed if their club caves in to United’s financial muscle. The club has built its Serie A campaign around young talents, and losing Dorgu mid-season could be a blow to their ambitions. But given Lecce’s history of developing and selling players for profit, it may just be a matter of time before they decide the offer is too good to refuse.

For United, securing Dorgu would signal long-term planning rather than just a panic buy. Whether he can live up to the hype, however, remains to be seen.