Matteo Darmian's move from Torino to Manchester United has moved a step closer to completion with the Italy defender boarding a flight for England on Friday.
Before boarding his plane, Darmian spoke to Sky Sport Italia about his state of mind, saying it is a "dream" to be about to join United.
"Certainly it's very emotional," he said. "I'm looking forward to this new adventure. It's certainly a dream. I'm superstitious so I'm not going to say anything more. Let's wait until I get there, then we'll see."
Darmian did leave Italy with a message for the Torino fans who have idolised him in recent seasons, and also those of the Italian national team who elected him their favourite player of 2014.
"The fans have been fantastic these years so I want to say thanks to them and to everybody," he added.
On Friday, Old Trafford boss Louis van Gaal also confirmed Darmian is on his way to the club to undergo a medical ahead of a summer transfer.
Louis van Gaal confirms #mufc are pursuing the signing of Matteo Darmian from Torino.
- Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 10, 2015
"I have read that in the papers," he told reporters. "That is true."
Asked if he was set for a medical, he replied: "Yes."
Darmian is set to join United in a deal worth a total of €20 million. That money will be reinvested by the Granata in what their coach, Giampiero Ventura, claims could become an even stronger side without Darmian, even though he has paid tribute to the Italian.
"For his desire, his humbleness and his dedication, it's only right that he can realise his dream of playing in the Champions League as part of a team who can challenge to win it," Ventura said in quotes carried by Tuttosport.
"Selling such an important player could open the door for us to build an even stronger squad. There has been an almost radical transformation and this could be the start of something big."
