When Patrick Dorgu could make Manchester United debut after registration deadline missed

Manchester United are closing in on the signature of Patrick Dorgu in the January transfer window. It is understood United have already agreed a €30 million transfer fee plus an additional €5m in potential add-ons for the Lecce defender, who will become the first senior signing under head coach Ruben Amorim.

Dorgu is expected to travel to Manchester this weekend and could even be present at Old Trafford on Sunday when United host Crystal Palace in the Premier League. The 20-year-old will be eager to hit the ground running at his new club but he will have to wait a little longer before he is available for selection.

Even though they don't play until Sunday, United needed to have his registration completed before the weekend, a deadline they have now missed. Here is a look at the situation and when Dorgu could make his first appearance as a United player.

Premier League registration deadline

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 can only select players who were officially registered with the club by midday on Friday 31 January.

To register Dorgu, United must send the Premier League a copy of the player's contract, a copy of the full transfer agreement between both clubs, an approved work permit as well as international clearance between the Italian and English football associations. The only document that can be submitted at a later date is the International Transfer Certificate which can be received up to 75 minutes before kick-off for a player to be eligible, as long as all the other relevant paperwork has been submitted successfully. It means Dorgu will not be available for selection this weekend.

When could Patrick Dorgu make his debut

It might not be long to wait for Dorgu to make his debut though. United are back in action when they host Leicester City in the FA Cup fourth round next week and any signing completed in the January transfer window will be eligible to feature.

The 20-year-old will hope for a place on the bench at the very least next Friday night, while he could even be handed a first start for the club as Amorim looks to integrate his new signing as quickly as possible. Dorgu 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.

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