Bologna add ex-Man United defender Darmian on free deal

Bologna have completed the signing of 36‑year‑old ex‑Inter and Man United full‑back Matteo Darmian on a free transfer, with the veteran putting pen to paper on a deal that runs until the close of the 2026‑27 season in Italy and includes an option to extend for a further year.

Darmian spent the last week on trial with the Rossoblu after becoming a free agent when his contract with Inter expired on 30 June 2026. The former Inter, Manchester United and Torino defender was announced as a new Bologna player following the successful trial.

The contract runs until 30 June 2027, effectively covering the remainder of the 2026‑27 campaign. Earlier reports suggested an additional twelve‑month extension clause could be activated.

Injury opens door for Darmian

Bologna’s right‑back Emil Holm suffered a serious injury while on international duty with Sweden during the September‑October break and is expected to miss four to six months after surgery. The vacancy prompted the club to bring in Darmian as experienced cover.

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After more than three months without a club, Darmian returns to Serie A and will be available for Bologna’s next league fixture, an away match against Lecce at 14.00 BST on Sunday.

Veteran’s résumé and rarity

During his spell at Inter he made 218 appearances across all competitions and was part of squads that won three Serie A titles, three Coppa Italia trophies, three Supercoppa Italiana finals and finished as Champions League runners‑up in 2023 and 2025.

Darmian is also the only Italian currently playing in Serie A to have featured in a World Cup final, having represented Italy at the 2014 tournament in Brazil under coach Prandelli.

Described as a versatile and reliable defender, he can operate on either flank or in a more central role, offering Bologna a blend of technical skill, positional sense and tactical awareness that adds depth to their back line.