Patrick Dorgu's imminent arrival 'will lead' to Man United defender 'departing' before end of January transfer window

Malacia has made eight appearances for Man United this season, including a start against FCSB in the Europa League on Thursday night, with the defender working his way back to fitness after 18 months on the sidelines with a serious knee injury.

However, the 25-year-old has found it difficult to make his mark, and Man United are on the verge of confirming the arrival of Patrick Dorgu from Lecce, which will open the door for Malacia to leave.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the left-back has agreed to join Benfica on loan for the second half of the campaign, and discussions between the two clubs "are now underway and advancing".

At this stage, it is unclear whether a permanent purchase option will be included in the loan agreement.

Man United's Malacia 'agrees loan move to Benfica'

Malacia made the move to Old Trafford from Feyenoord in July 2022, and he made 39 appearances for the Red Devils during the 2024-25 campaign, but he missed the entire 2023-24 season through injury.

The Dutchman is in the final 18 months of his contract with Man United, although the club do have the option to advantage a further 12 months, which would take him to the summer of 2027.

Luke Shaw is now back in full training with the Red Devils and should, in theory, be available for selection from the middle of February.

Dorgu will not arrive in time to make his debut against Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon, but he could be involved in next Friday's FA Cup fourth-round contest with Leicester City.

Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho and Casemiro are also being linked with moves away from the 20-time English champions in the closing stages of the January transfer window, while a verbal offer has allegedly been submitted for Bayern Munich's Mathys Tel.

Written by

Matt Law