According to a recent report by ESPN, Barcelona have registered their interest for Manchester United full-back Diogo Dalot this summer. The same source has also mentioned that the Catalans are showing interest in acquiring the services of the Portuguese defender during the summer transfer window.
Dalot’s Mounting Frustrations At Old Trafford This Season
It seems like Dalot is surplus to the requirements at Old Trafford after falling down Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s pecking order over the past ten months. He has endured a frustrating season in the Premier League after missing a significant chunk of this campaign due to a groin injury.
Dalot has featured in 11 matches for the Red Devils this term, scoring one goal and picking up one yellow card across all competitions which highlight his recent shortcomings at the Theatre of Dreams. He has averaged 1.0 tackles, 1.1 interceptions, 1.1 clearances and 1.0 dribbles per game in the Premier League and the UEFA Europa League this season (stats via whoscored).
The FC Porto youth product has also represented Portugal at various youth levels but is yet to make a senior appearance for his country. Dalot can benefit from a change of scenery this summer as it will provide him with an opportunity to make a fresh start away from Manchester next season.
What Will The Portuguese Starlet Add To Quique Setien’s Side?
Dalot can use his pace to make some driving runs with the ball out on the wide areas. He hardly gets beat in a 1v1 footrace, but can sometimes have a lapse in concentration when defending inside his half. The Portuguese youngster has still got a lot to learn before he is ready to feature at the highest level week in week out.
Dalot is a decent crosser of the ball and possesses the strength the outmuscle the opposition in the air. He can also pull off some crucial interceptions and last-ditch clearances for his side. However, his inconsistent form this season will be a significant cause for concern for any of his potential suitors including the Catalan giants.
Setien is in dire need to add more depth and quality to his squad at the Nou Camp if he wants to lead Barca back to the summit of Spanish football in the upcoming campaign. However, Dalot is too injury-prone and has failed to prove his worth in the Premier League so far.
Hence, it doesn’t make any sense for Setien to consider orchestrating a move for the underperforming Man United outcast this summer. Barca will be better off investing their money on proven players as they can help the club challenge for some major silverware in the years to come.
