Deadline day passed on Tuesday without Manchester United welcoming a new left-back. That does not end the story, because Federico Dimarco has the sort of output and contract position that could make him a serious free-transfer option next summer.

Dimarco's end product

Seven goals and 18 assists in 35 league matches is a serious return for a wide defender or wing-back. Dimarco has also already played twice this season, and he has posted a 7.9 rating in two of his last five matches, including the most recent league game.

The move would not be about filling a squad slot with a body. Dimarco has 236 appearances for Inter, has won two Serie A titles and has played in two Champions League finals with the club. That is the sort of record United would be weighing if they are looking beyond the current window.

United's left-back problem

The gap on the left remains obvious enough. Luke Shaw featured in all 38 league matches last season, but he has only made 2 appearances so far this season. United also have only Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui as other senior full-back options, while Patrick Dorgu has been used in a more advanced role and Harry Amass is 19 and still largely inexperienced.

Manchester Evening News put the point plainly: "It leaves Luke Shaw short of backup or competition for his place in Michael Carrick’s side." That is where Dimarco starts to look more interesting than the usual late-window name. A player of his level, age and output does not come around often on a free route.

The timing still matters. Express Sport reported that with his contract currently due to expire in 2027, Dimarco stands to become available on a free transfer next summer. United have already missed the chance to solve the position now, but the option to wait is there.

If the club keep the position open until next summer, Dimarco will be one of the cleaner fits on the market, and the deal would be shaped by what happens with his Inter contract over the coming months.

Written by Jack Mercer with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 2 outlets. How we work →