The so-called “Carrick Revolution” appears to be accelerating toward a new and ambitious phase.
According to a fresh “Here We Go” update from respected transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Manchester United have made decisive progress on a major defensive addition.
Backed by the club’s INEOS leadership, the agreement is being described as a statement of intent that could reverberate across European football.
After sustained scouting missions — including close monitoring during the heated Derby d’Italia — United have reportedly reached personal terms with Federico Dimarco of Inter Milan.
The Italian international wing-back is now being positioned as a foundational piece in a significant defensive rebuild planned for the summer of 2026.
The move signals that the club’s hierarchy are not merely planning incremental improvements, but rather a structural reset aimed at elevating the squad to elite European standards.
Reports indicate that INEOS chief Jim Ratcliffe and sporting director Dan Ashworth have played central roles in pushing negotiations forward.
Internally, Dimarco is viewed as an ideal tactical fit for manager Michael Carrick and his evolving system.
While United had been linked with high-profile names such as Gleison Bremer and Theo Hernandez, it is Dimarco’s creativity, delivery quality, and leadership experience that reportedly elevated him to top priority status.
Dimarco’s form this season has strengthened the case for his recruitment. In Serie A action, he has contributed five goals and 12 assists in just 22 matches — exceptional output for a defender.
For a United side that has faced instability and injury concerns on the left flank, his arrival would represent a substantial upgrade.
Observers note his ability to operate both as a traditional left-back and as an advanced wing-back capable of dictating play higher up the pitch.
That tactical flexibility is said to align perfectly with Carrick’s emphasis on fluid, possession-driven football.
Contract discussions are believed to have concluded successfully, with Dimarco agreeing in principle to a five-year deal reportedly worth around £180,000 per week.
He is also expected to slot straight into the starting lineup, forming a defensive core alongside emerging talents such as Leny Yoro and Lisandro Martínez.
Although Inter are not eager to sanction his departure, a transfer package in the region of €75 million could be sufficient, particularly if financial balancing becomes necessary ahead of 2026.
Dimarco may not be the only reinforcement arriving from Italy. Romano has also suggested that discussions are progressing regarding Pierre Kalulu of Juventus FC, hinting at the possibility of a double acquisition from Serie A.
Currently positioned in the Premier League’s top four and narrowly ahead of rivals such as Chelsea FC, United’s leadership appear intent on moving beyond simply securing Champions League qualification.
The ambition for 2026/27 is clear: mount a credible challenge for both domestic and European titles.
Whether Dimarco proves to be the transformative piece that propels United into genuine title contention remains to be seen.
At 28 years old, the proposed fee is significant, but the club evidently believes his experience, quality, and tactical intelligence justify the investment.
