Real Madrid interested in Manchester United star as Plan B if they fail to sign top target - Reports
Real Madrid have identified Manchester United's Diogo Dalot as a possible alternative to Trent-Alexander Arnold, according to Fichajes. The La Liga champions are looking for a new right-back to eventually replace Dani Carvajal.
The 32-year-old has been in top form this season, but is not getting any younger. His backup, Lucas Vazquez, is also on the wrong side of 30, forcing Los Blancos to lay down succession plans.
Real Madrid initially had their eyes on Trent Alexander-Arnold for the job. The Englishman has entered the final year of his contract with Liverpool and hasn't agreed to an extension so far.
The La Liga giants were hoping to sign the 25-year-old on a Bosman move next summer. However, it now reportedly looks increasingly likely that he will sign a new deal with the Reds and continue his stay at Anfield.
The situation has prompted Real Madrid to turn to Dalot, who has been outstanding for Manchester United in recent seasons. The Portuguese has developed into one of the finest right-backs in the league at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils opted to strengthen their squad by roping in Noussair Mazraoui from Bayern Munich this summer. While the Moroccan has mostly been preferred in the right-back role this season, it is possibly because Dalot has been covering at left-back for Luke Shaw.
The 25-year-old has started every game for the Premier League giants this season, further highlighting his importance to Erik ten Hag. However, Real Madrid could test Manchester United's desire to keep hold of him in 2025 if they miss out on Alexander-Arnold.
Can Real Madrid price Diogo Dalot away from Manchester United?
Diogo Dalot is a key piece of the puzzle for Manchester United, who are preparing to reclaim their throne in the Premier League and Europe under INEOS. The new minority owners have invested wisely in the squad over the summer and are building a team for the present and the future.
Dalot features prominently in their plans, with his versatility making him an asset for Erik ten Hag. Even while operating at left-back, the Portuguese has still averaged 1.7 tackles, 1.3 interceptions, and 1.1 clearances per 90 minutes.
He already has one goal and one assist to his name this season, and has registered 1.3 key passes per game. These qualities have understandably endeared him to Real Madrid. However, Diogo Dalot is under contract with the Red Devils until 2028, so prising him away won't be an easy task.