Patrick Dorgu was seen heading for dinner at a high-end restaurant the night before his £25.2 million transfer to Manchester United was confirmed.
The 20-year-old player flew in from Italy on Saturday to complete his medical and has officially signed a five-and-a-half-year deal at Old Trafford.
Dorgu, a versatile full-back, has become Ruben Amorim’s second signing, following the arrival of young Ayden Heaven from Arsenal. He is expected to watch United’s home match against Crystal Palace from the stands this afternoon.
After finishing his paperwork at Carrington, Dorgu made his way to The Ivy, an upscale venue favored by United players and staff.
Wearing a brown jumper and stylish black trousers, the defender kept his hood up and was accompanied by three security guards as he entered the restaurant.
He arrived in a black Jeep and walked a short distance from the vehicle while eager fans took out their phones to capture the moment.
Amorim had pinpointed Dorgu, a four-time Denmark international, as the solution to his left wing-back dilemma, although he can also play on the right side.
When asked about his move to United at the airport yesterday, Dorgu told Sky Sports, “Yes, it’s an opportunity for me.”
His medical had faced delays earlier in the week due to paperwork not being finalized in time for the original appointment. Lecce had also wanted him in their squad for their loss to Parma on Friday night.
United initially submitted a £16.8 million bid with an additional £4.2 million in add-ons, but this offer was rejected.
Reports indicated that Lecce was initially aiming for a total package worth £33 million.
Dorgu’s contract with the Serie A club was set to run until 2029, and club president Saverio Sticchi Damiani stated they would “resist” selling players if possible.
United had PSG full-back Nuno Mendes on their radar this month, but the deal was considered too challenging due to the club’s financial difficulties. Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez was also under consideration.
Dorgu began his youth career at Husum Boldklub in Copenhagen before joining Nordsjaelland’s academy in 2020.
He signed with Lecce two years later and was quickly promoted to the senior team, making his debut in the Coppa Italia in August 2023.
Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford is anticipated to join Aston Villa on loan. After being sidelined by Amorim, the forward is set to undergo his medical today.
Rashford has not participated in the last 12 matches and expressed his desire for a “new challenge” in a surprising interview released in December.
The deal will also include an option to make the transfer permanent for £40 million.