Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot has emerged as one of the most important players under Erik ten Hag and now, the Portuguese defender has attracted the interest of several giants across Europe.
Dalot is the only outfield player at United to have started all games in all competitions – such is the reliance on him under Ten Hag.
There is a rather worrying aspect to all of this, however, and that’s the length of his contract. Dalot is out of contract at the end of this season and as things stand, it’s not looking like United have entered negotiations with his representatives.
United have the option to extend that for an additional season but it’s fair to assume that they would rather tie him down to a long-term deal.
Earlier, it was reported that Barcelona were one of the clubs interested in Dalot as his contract winds down. European giants Atletico Madrid and Milan are also said to hold an interest.
Now, there’s an added twist to the story as Real Madrid, the current European champions, have now set their sights on the Portugal international after accepting that signing Joao Cancelo is unlikely.
That’s according to the Mirror, who say that the Spanish giants have been scouting Dalot recently and that the feedback has been positive on and off the pitch.
It’s claimed that Dalot is unlikely to sign a new deal as things stand and should Real Madrid and Barcelona go head-to-head for his signature, Los Blancos are likely to come out on top due to their financial muscles.
Furthermore, it’s added that any deal to pry Dalot away from Old Trafford would see United receive around £35m.
SN’s verdict…
It’s absolutely imperative that United hold on to Dalot if he’s the player Ten Hag wants to continue building with on that right-hand side.
Thus far, he has been absolutely flawless and next summer, when more changes will be made as Ten Hag continues to rebuild the club, he should be given the peace of mind to not worry about yet another position to strengthen.
