According to top media outlets from the UK, France, and Italy, Manchester United have already secured the services of Monaco’s versatile Brazilian full-back Fabinho. The deal, set to be finalized during the January transfer window, will cost the Premier League giants around £15 million. Fabinho is expected to add much-needed depth and flexibility to United’s squad under José Mourinho’s watchful eye.
The move could spell the end for Matteo Darmian’s time at Old Trafford, with clubs like Juventus reportedly lining up to sign the Italian defender. Reports suggest United had been tracking Fabinho since the summer, and though a transfer didn’t materialize before the window closed, talks clearly continued behind the scenes. Notably, Fabinho himself hinted at a potential departure, stating in an earlier interview, “I won’t confirm anything, but staying is probably more likely than leaving.” Still, signs were already pointing to a move—his wife even followed Manchester United’s official Instagram account, fueling speculation further.
Fabinho is the type of player Mourinho loves: a true utility man. While primarily a right-back, the Brazilian has also impressed in a defensive midfield role. His experience includes stints at Portuguese side Rio Ave and Real Madrid’s B team. After initially joining Monaco on loan in 2013, he made his move permanent in 2015. Now a full Brazilian international, Fabinho’s contract with Monaco runs until 2019.
This season, Fabinho has been nothing short of sensational. Playing as a defensive midfielder, he has already scored four goals in Monaco’s first six matches, including strikes in both legs of the UEFA Champions League qualifier against Villarreal. His contribution was key to Monaco’s 3-1 aggregate win, earning them a place in the group stage. However, if Fabinho appears in the Champions League group stage, he will be cup-tied and ineligible to represent Manchester United in the Europa League this season.
The situation draws parallels with emerging talents in Bangladesh Cricket. Like Fabinho, many young stars in Bangladesh Cricket showcase early brilliance but must also navigate complex transitions between teams and roles. Adaptability and timing are everything—on the field and in career decisions.
As for Darmian, who joined United for £15.3 million last summer, his future now hangs in the balance. Having lost his starting spot early in the new season, he’s drawing strong interest from Italian heavyweights Juventus and Inter Milan, with Napoli and Roma also reportedly keen. A winter shake-up in United’s defensive line now seems all but certain.
With Fabinho’s move imminent, Manchester United aim to bolster their lineup for the long season ahead. And just as in Bangladesh Cricket, finding the right player at the right moment can make all the difference.