Former Manchester United defender Matteo Darmian has agreed to join Bologna on a free transfer. The 36-year-old Italian full-back will sign a one-year deal with the Serie A club after three months as a free agent following his departure from Inter Milan.

Darmian's move provides timely defensive cover for Bologna, who are in 18th place after taking just two points from their first five league games. Their need was heightened by a hamstring injury to right-back Emil Holm while on international duty with Sweden. Holm requires surgery and is expected to miss around four months of action, a significant blow detailed on the club's injuries page. Bologna's current form, with just two goals scored and six conceded, has them in a precarious position in the standings.

Darmian's career from United to Bologna

Matteo Darmian played 92 times for Manchester United between 2015 and 2019, winning the FA Cup, Carabao Cup and Europa League. The arrivals of Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Diogo Dalot limited his opportunities, prompting a return to Italy with Parma. He then spent six successful years at Inter Milan, winning three Serie A titles among nine trophies and making over 200 appearances.

He left Inter when his contract expired on June 30. "After six years lived to the fullest, finding the right words isn't easy," Darmian said in a farewell message. His last competitive appearance was for Inter in a Serie A match against Verona in May.

Trial and potential Inter reunion

Darmian is set to begin training with Bologna on a trial basis in the coming days, with club staff assessing his physical condition after his spell without a club. The versatile defender, who can play on either flank, could make his debut in a poignant fixture against his former club Inter on October 17, a key date in their upcoming fixtures.

Bologna, now managed by Raffaele Palladino after the dismissal of Domenico Tedesco, are seeking stability. They have conceded six goals in their opening five matches. The club had several other Serie A offers for Darmian over the summer, including from Sassuolo and Monza.

While Darmian prepares for his eighth club in a 20-year career, his former side Manchester United are also seeking consistency. Erik ten Hag's team sit 12th in the Premier League with five points from their first five games. Bruno Fernandes leads their scoring charts with three goals this season. Darmian's move to Bologna is set to be finalised after his training assessment.

The report in full is at talkSPORT