London, July 12 (IANS): Manchester United on Sunday announced that Italian footballer Matteo Darmian has completed his transfer from Torino on a four-year contract with the option to extend for a further year.

Darmian, 25, has made 146 appearances and scored five league goals for Torino since his debut in 2011.

"It is a dream come true to be joining Manchester United. I have loved the time that I have spent at Torino and I would like to thank the club and the fans for everything they have done for me," Darmian told the United website.

"I am sure they can understand when the opportunity to join the biggest club in world came along it was something I had to do. To work with Louis van Gaal, a manager that has achieved so much in football is such an exciting prospect."

The defender has 13 international caps for Italy and was part of their World Cup squad last summer in Brazil.

"Matteo is a right-sided full back with the versatility of also being able to play on the left. He is a strong defender and has the ability to go forward in the attacking positions which is a fantastic attribute to have and much needed in the fast rhythm of the English Premier League," van Gaal said.