Matteo Darmian wants to leave Manchester United in January – but will not be allowed to go on the cheap.

The Italian right back made clear his intentions to leave Old Trafford in the summer, despite Jose Mourinho’s desire to keep him at the club.

United’s manager reluctantly agreed to let him go but injuries to Antonio Valencia and Diogo Dalot ultimately ended Darmian’s hopes of a return to Italy.

After making just one appearance this season – in the opening game against Leicester - the 28-year-old remains determined to find regular first-team football.

United have been impressed with his professionalism, both during the summer and throughout the season, and appreciate he wants more playing time at this stage of his career.

But they also know they have a saleable asset and could comfortably demand at least the £12.7m he cost when they signed him from Torino in 2015.

Darmian is out of contract in the summer, but United have the option of a further 12 months, which they are likely to trigger if he is not sold in January.

They did likewise with Juan Mata and Ander Herrera last season, while deciding the long-term futures of the pair.

United have recently opened contract talks with both Mata and Herrera, with Mourinho keen to keep hold of both.

Mata has interest from Italy, with Juventus eager to talk with him in January.

Herrera has been linked with a return to Spain, but it’s understood his preference would be to stay at United.