According to reports from Goal, Manchester United may have to wait until next summer to offload outcast right-back Matteo Darmian.

What's the word?

Louis van Gaal signed the defender from Torino last summer after a string of solid campaigns in Turin and a decent showing for Italy at the 2014 World Cup. But Darmian's influence waned as the 2015/16 season went on and he finished it out of the starting XI - whilst starting the current one struggling to claim a spot on the bench.

Indeed, the 26-year-old has started just one game so far this season, in the Europa League at his secondary position of left-back, which tells all about Mourinho's lack of faith in him.

Darmian is reportedly keen to get his career back on track and United have made him available to other clubs, but two key issues are holding up a January departure from Old Trafford.

What's the problem?

Firstly, interest in Darmian is largely limited. Inter Milan are seen as the likeliest suitors but don't view signing another right-back as a priority - and they'd be far more open to a loan move than a permanent transfer.

Secondly, United are struggling to come to terms with the price-tag of their preferred replacement, Fabinho. The Red Devils were strongly linked with the Monaco defender during the summer but ultimately decided not to meet the French club's £25million valuation. Goal now quote it as £36million - rather steep for a right-back.

However, it's suggested Fabinho's price-tag could drop next summer, when United will fancy their chances of offloading Darmian.

Is Fabinho worth £36m?

That's a matter of opinion but the Brazilian is undoubtedly an exciting talent. In addition to excelling at right-back for Monaco last term, he's been a real force in central midfield this season - notching up four goals in seven Ligue 1 outings whilst also popping up with an assist in the Champions League.

Yet, that comes with its own dilemmas. With Antonio Valencia filling the void at the moment, United need an out-and-out right-back to take the No.2 mantle. So would the Red Devils actually be buying a right-back who can take the position long-term or a central midfielder shoehorned into the backline? The age-old adage of a square peg in a round hole comes to mind.

Nonetheless, the 22-year-old's form is certainly noteworthy. Here's a look at his progression since signing for Monaco, initially on loan, in summer 2013 - courtesy of Squawka.