Recent reports from The Sun suggest that Serie A giants AC Milan are keen on extending Diogo Dalot’s stay at the club, with the Italian side offering around £12million for the Portuguese right-back.
The report further states that Diogo Dalot is open to all kind of possibilities as he is happy in Italy; however, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer might want him back in England once the season ends.
“He never managed to be fit for a long spell when he was here [and was] unfortunate with injuries. Now he’s kept fit all season; he’s been available for them.” – The Norwegian coach said earlier this month.
“He’s playing at a big club, big expectations, [with the] great history of the club, so it’s been a good year for him.”
“So, of course, I’ve been very pleased with his development this season, and he’s our player, and we’re looking forward to having him back.”
Reviewing Dalot’s Season At The San Siro
It would be fair to say that Dalot’s move to the San Siro stadium has paid off largely, with the Portuguese international bagging 25 appearances across all competitions under Stefano Pioli this term.
He has managed to put some decent numbers on the board this season – averaging 1.8 tackles, 1.8 interceptions, 1.9 clearances, and 2.3 long balls per 90 minutes in the Italian top-flight. The 22-year-old has established himself as more of a wing-back, often running at defenders down the right flank and getting past them to deliver crosses for the front-men – something Solskjaer lacks with Aaron Wan-Bissaka in the right-back position.
In December 2020, ESPN published a report on their website claiming that the board will prioritise the right side of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s squad for strengthening in the next two transfer windows in order to address the shortcomings in Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s game. Under such circumstances, the return of Diogo Dalot would only improve the English international’s game, quite similar to the effect Alex Telles’ signing had on Luke Shaw.
What Will He Add To Solskjaer’s Side?
Nonetheless, Aaron Wan-Bissaka has been nothing short of a hit for Manchester United since his £50 million move to the Old Trafford from Crystal Palace last summer. However, one cannot deny the lack of back-up options in the department.
The return of Dalot will undoubtedly give rise to healthy competition, and it might just bring the best out of the 23-year-old defender, who arguably has a lot to improve in offensive terms. Moreover, he would provide United with a very different option in games where breaking down the opposition defence is the order of the day.
(Stats from WhoScored)
