Real Madrid is reportedly keen on signing Manchester United right-back Diogo Dalot. This interest arises after the LaLiga giants made several attempts to approach Liverpool about Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose contract expires this summer.
With Liverpool performing well at the top of the Premier League and Alexander-Arnold being a local favorite, Madrid may be reconsidering their pursuit, especially with the potential for a new deal at Anfield.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 01: Diogo Dalot of Manchester United reacts prior to the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Everton FC at Old Trafford on December 01, 2024. (Photo by Ash Donelon/Manchester United via Getty Images)
Instead, coach Carlo Ancelotti’s team is reportedly looking at Dalot as an alternative to the England international. According to the Spanish outlet Relevo, Madrid values Dalot at around £41 million. They had previously inquired about him during Erik ten Hag’s tenure at United.
The 25-year-old Dalot has made 178 appearances for Manchester United and was named player of the year by his teammates last season. His importance grew during a challenging 2023-24 campaign, where he started 35 of 38 Premier League matches and scored two goals.
New manager Ruben Amorim is expected to evaluate the squad going forward, but Dalot is likely to remain a key player. He has four years left on his contract after signing a new deal in May 2023.
On the other hand, Real Madrid could potentially sign Alexander-Arnold for free, as he enters the final six months of his contract with Liverpool. Despite this, manager Arne Slot hopes to convince him to extend his stay, especially if the club maintains its positive momentum.
Alexander-Arnold has enjoyed substantial success with Liverpool, winning numerous titles, including their first Premier League title, a Champions League, and a FIFA Club World Cup. He is eligible to sign a pre-contract agreement with an overseas club in January, as his current contract expires in June.
However, Madrid aims to respect Liverpool, particularly after their recent 2-0 victory over them in Europe, by clarifying their intentions. Alexander-Arnold has been linked to a move to Madrid for some time, having provided an impressive 84 assists and 23 goals from right-back in 326 appearances for Liverpool.
Currently, Los Blancos are without their regular right-back, Dani Carvajal, who is sidelined with a ruptured ACL.