Atletico Madrid eyeing summer move for versatile United speedster as a replacement for World Cup winner– report

Diogo Dalot has started both of the new Manchester United caretaker manager Michael Carrick’s first two games in charge. The Portuguese right-back arrived at Old Trafford from Porto in the summer of 2018 and after a season-long loan spell with AC Milan, cemented his place in the first-team squad in the 2021/22 season. Dalot has survived several managerial changes at the Theatre of Dreams, with his versatility proving to be an asset for the Premier League giants. The 26 year old has often filled in on the left flank when required, while his attacking instincts have also complemented United’s style of play. Despite the arrivals of Noussair Mazraoui and Patrick Dorgu in recent times, Dalot has remained a valuable first-team member for the Premier League giants. United have relied on Dalot’s versatility this season Dalot started the 2025/26 season as the right-sided wing-back in former head coach Ruben Amorim’s controversial 3-4-3 system. However, Amad Diallo’s excellent run in the position reduced his game time. The Portuguese soon shifted to the other flank, slotting in effortlessly in the left-sided wing-back role and forcing Patrick Dorgu to the bench. Following Amad’s departure for AFCON duties, Dalot was back on the right flank once again, providing valuable cover for the Ivorian. Darren Fletcher briefly took charge as the interim manager after Amorim’s departure earlier this month and switched to a back four, so the Portuguese dropped down to the right-back position. Carrick has trusted Dalot in the role in his first two games as well. Diogo Dalot Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League2118123–1,589′ FA Cup11––––90′ EFL Cup11––––90′ Total2320123–1,769′ Source: Transfermarkt. Dalot is under contract at the Theatre of Dreams until 2028, although his position is likely to be assessed in the coming months. It now appears that the Portuguese could have the chance to move to LaLiga this year. Atletico Madrid want Dalot According to Fichajes, Atletico Madrid are ready to prise Dalot away from Old Trafford this summer. The LaLiga giants are looking for an upgrade on Nahuel Molina, who has been inconsistent this season. The Portuguese’s versatility appeals to Diego Simeone, and his arrival could also help push Marcos Llorente permanently into midfield. Meanwhile, Dalot’s ability to slot in at left-back could provide much-needed cover in a squad that has regularly shown signs of physical exhaustion in recent seasons. The report adds that the Portuguese is open to a move to the Spanish capital to try out a new adventure. Convincing United will not be easy, but Los Rojiblancos are reportedly confident of getting a deal across the line. Final Thoughts Dalot has divided opinion among fans, but remains a key player for United at the moment. However, with the squad switching to a back-four, the Portuguese’s future will come into doubt if Mazraoui manages to take over the right-back position in the coming games. The Red Devils, as such, could be tempted to consider offers for Dalot at the end of the season, although a previous report by The Peoples Person states that the club want him to stay. However, it is assumed that the final decision on the matter will rest in the hands of the permanent manager, who is expected to take charge this summer. Feature image Justin Setterfield via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Deepungsu Pandit Deepungsu has been a Manchester United fan since 2000. In his playing days, he was an attacking midfielder with a proclivity for the back heel. Right now, however, he prefers to operate as a regista. Deepungsu has been writing about the Red Devils, Football, and other things since 2009. He has worked for over seven years with Sportskeeda, writing football reviews, opinions and news articles. Deepungsu also maintains a blog, The Thinking Me, where he writes about life and things that interest him. His favourite Manchester United player is Paul Scholes.