Manchester United registration deadline for Patrick Dorgu debut this weekend

There could be a new face in the Manchester United squad when they host Crystal Palace in the Premier League this weekend.

United left it late to defeat Fulham at Craven Cottage last time out and will need to improve upon their lacklustre attacking performance when they host the Eagles at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon.

Ruben Amorim's primary focus will be on their upcoming Europa League clash with FCSB on Thursday night, but he will no doubt also have the transfer window on his mind ahead of deadline day next week. Amorim wants to add both a wing-back and a forward to his squad this window and is on course to address one of those problem positions before the weekend.

United are making progress on a deal to sign Lecce defender Patrick Dorgu and hope the player can travel to Manchester in the next 24 hours to complete his medical and be presented as a new signing. United have already verbally agreed personal terms with Dorgu but have yet to agree to a financial package with Lecce for his signature. It has been reported United will pay the Serie A club an initial €30 million plus a further €5m in potential add-ons.

There is growing confidence a deal will be finalised over the coming days, and there is even a chance Dorgu could make his United debut when they host Palace this weekend. Premier League rules state clubs must register new players before midday on the last working day before they play in a match, which is Friday for weekend matches. It means that although United don't face Palace until 2pm GMT on Sunday, they must successfully submit all relevant documentation by midday on Friday 31 January.

The 20-year-old is viewed as a player who could revolutionise United's tactical approach under Amorim, with the hope he will bring balance to their side and contribute to attacking play as much as defence. His arrival will allow Diogo Dalot to occupy the right wing-back role, with Noussair Mazraoui viewed as suitable cover for either flank.

To finance a move for Dorgu, United have allowed Antony to join Real Betis on loan for the remainder of the campaign while fellow defender Tyrell Malacia will also be allowed to depart before the deadline day next Tuesday. United are still exploring options to add to their attack, with Mathys Tel and Christopher Nkunku both linked.

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