Real Madrid desperate to sign United star after CL setback, “compelling offer” could seal January transfer – report

Former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho handed Real Madrid a shock defeat in the Champions League, knocking them down into the play-offs. Real find themselves in a bit of turmoil, having already replaced Xabi Alonso with Alvaro Arbeloa. However, the young manager was outclassed by the Special One, who has exacerbated the situation in the Spanish capital. On the back of the 4-2 defeat in Europe, Los Blancos are set to react aggressively in the transfer market during the final days of the January transfer window.  Real Madrid pushing to sign Diogo Dalot According to Fichajes, Real Madrid are “seriously considering” signing Diogo Dalot from Manchester United this month. Mourinho’s Benfica expertly exploited Real’s defensive weaknesses, scoring four past the Champions League giants. The club’s hierarchy are now keen to address the area to avoid further embarrassment. In particular, a new right-back has become an “immediate priority” amid concerns over Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold’s fitness. Uruguay midfielder Federico Valverde started in the position on Wednesday.  Dalot, who was ironically signed by Jose Mourinho during his time at United, is admired at Madrid for his versatility, technical prowess and defensive acumen. It is added that a “convincing offer in the last days of January could open the door to negotiations.”  Bayern Munich also in the race for Dalot The Spanish outlet claims Real face competition from Bayern Munich for Dalot’s services.  Bayern are closely monitoring the United defender as Josip Stanisic and Konrad Laimer have been sidelined until at least mid-February. Diogo Dalot Stats: 2025/26 Season CompetitionAppearancesStartsGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed CardsMinutes Played Premier League2118123–1,589′ FA Cup11––––90′ EFL Cup11––––90′ Total2320123–1,769′ It is understood the Bundesliga giants could enter the bidding war for the 27-year-old. Dalot had a difficult time playing as a wing-back under Ruben Amorim. However, the Portuguese right-back returned to his natural position against Manchester City and Arsenal and looked solid in and out of possession. As such, it would make little sense for United to consider his exit at this stage of the season. Accordingly, it is advised to take the suggestion of a winter exit with a pinch of salt. Featured 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 Vishal Singh Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets, including North Star Network. Vishal has a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Delhi University. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Vishal also manages a leading MUFC fan page, The Red Devils, on Facebook with over a million likes. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!