π¨β CONFIRMED: Real Madrid Interested in Manchester United Right-Back Diogo Dalot
Real Madrid have reportedly identified Manchester United right-back Diogo Dalot as a potential transfer target as they plan for life beyond Dani Carvajal. The 25-year-old Portuguese international is said to be admired by Madridβs recruitment team, with the club viewing him as both a long-term replacement for Carvajal and a player capable of providing strong competition for Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is also on their radar.
Madrid Planning for the Post-Carvajal Era
Dani Carvajal has been a key figure for Real Madrid for over a decade, but with the veteran defender moving into the latter stages of his career, the Spanish giants are actively exploring succession options. Dalot is reportedly seen as an ideal profile: experienced at the highest level, tactically versatile, and still entering his prime years. Madridβs interest reflects their long-standing strategy of refreshing the squad before decline sets in.
Why Diogo Dalot Appeals to Real Madrid
Dalotβs appeal lies in his athleticism, technical ability, and tactical flexibility. At Manchester United, he has operated both as a traditional right-back and in more advanced roles, showing comfort on the ball and an ability to contribute in attack. His experience in the Premier League and European competitions has helped him develop into a more complete defender, making him an attractive option for a club that demands consistency at elite level.
Competition With Trent Alexander-Arnold
Reports suggest Madrid see Dalot as someone who could either compete with or complement a potential move for Trent Alexander-Arnold. While Alexander-Arnold is renowned for his creativity and passing range, Dalot offers a different profile β more balanced defensively, with strong recovery pace and positional discipline. Having both profiles would give Madrid tactical flexibility depending on opponents and match situations.
β¬25m Price Tag Considered
Real Madrid are reportedly willing to pay around β¬25 million for Dalot, a figure that reflects both his contract situation and market value. From Unitedβs perspective, this fee could spark internal debate. Dalot has been a regular starter and a reliable performer, but United are also mindful of squad evolution, financial regulations, and potential reinvestment opportunities.
Manchester Unitedβs Dilemma
Selling Dalot would leave United needing a replacement at right-back, a position that has already seen frequent rotation in recent seasons. However, the reported fee could be seen as good business if the club believes it can upgrade or redistribute resources elsewhere. Much will depend on Unitedβs long-term planning, the managerβs tactical preferences, and Dalotβs own stance on a potential move to Spain.
What Happens Next
At this stage, Real Madridβs interest does not mean a deal is imminent. Talks, if any, remain at an exploratory phase, and no official bid has been confirmed. However, the fact that Dalot is being discussed as a Carvajal successor underlines how far he has come in his development at Old Trafford.
The Bigger Picture
For Dalot, interest from Real Madrid represents recognition at the highest level. For Manchester United, it highlights the growing value of their players in the European market. Whether this interest turns into a formal transfer will be one of the more intriguing stories to watch as the window approaches.