In a recent print edition, Correio da Manhã mentioned that Real Madrid are keeping a keen eye on Manchester United full-back Diogo Dalot this summer. It is believed that Los Blancos are keeping tabs on the Portuguese defender’s situation but is yet to make an approach for him in this off-season (transcripted and translated by Sport Witness).
Dalot’s Fruitful Loan Spell At San Siro
The 22-year-old recently enjoyed a solid loan spell at AC Milan as he got a regular run of games under his belt last season. Dalot was involved in 33 matches for the Italian outfit in the previous campaign, netting two goals and earning three assists in all competitions.
The Portuguese right-back found some consistency with his performances after he averaged 1.5 tackles, 1.2 interceptions and 1.8 clearances per 90 minutes in the Serie A. He even distributed the ball quite well from the right-wing, as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 79.1% in the Italian first division (stats via whoscored).
Dalot has still got over two years remaining in his Man United contract, so Los Blancos will have to make a sizable offer if they are serious about landing him during this summer transfer period. However, Carlo Ancelotti might struggle to offer the Portugal international regular playing minutes at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium next season which could make it difficult for Real Madrid to lure him this summer.
Will Dalot Be The Right Fit For Los Blancos This Summer?
Dalot has decent pace under his belt and can make full use of his quickness to make some quick dashes down the right flank. He has transformed himself into a reliable defensive presence at San Siro but he has to find a way to be more productive with his offensive contributions in the coming seasons. Dalot is versatile enough to operate in both full-back positions or as a wide player on the right-wing.
The one-time Portugal international can time his tackles well to earn the ball back for his side and is not afraid to clear the danger when the opposition are pressing him high up the field. However, the jury is still out on whether Dalot can be a top performer at the highest level.
Ancelotti should only consider launching a move for the Portuguese sensation if he plans to use him as a squad player as he has not done enough to justify a regular starting place at the Bernabeu. However, there is no denying that Dalot will increase competition for places within Ancelotti’s match-day squad and could help Los Blancos compete across all fronts in the upcoming campaign. Hence, he will be a decent fit for the Madrid giants this summer but only if they can sign him on a cut-price fee.
