Man United signs Italian defender Darmian

Matteo Darmian, right, in action for Italy at the 2014 FIFA World Cup. (Martin Mejia/AP)

MANCHESTER, England — Manchester United has signed Italy right back Matteo Darmian from Torino on a four-year contract, further bolstering its squad on the day the 20-time English champion reached a deal for Germany captain Bastian Schweinsteiger.

United didn’t disclose the fee for Darmian in announcing the transfer, which solves a problem area for coach Louis van Gaal with midfielder Antonio Valencia being played out of position at right back for much of last season.

Van Gaal says the 25-year-old Darmian, who has played 13 times for Italy, "is a strong defender and has the ability to go forward in the attacking positions, which is a fantastic attribute to have and much needed in the fast rhythm of the Premier League."

Hours earlier Saturday, United said it had reached an agreement with Bayern Munich to sign Schweinsteiger, subject to a medical examination and personal terms being agreed.

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