Diogo Dalot has been among the most dependable players in recent seasons, with the full-back’s impressive fitness record meaning he has played in the majority of the games under two different Manchester United managers.
However, Ruben Amorim’s arrival did mean an entirely new system, one in which the traditional full-back was replaced by a wing-back, with the head coach demanding more attacking impetus and the ability to exploit space out wide.
The late injury aside, the Portugal international started on either flank from time to time, and apart from a few impressive displays, the 26-year-old was not as effective as the ex-Sporting CP boss would have liked.
Which is why he brought in Patrick Dorgu in the winter to play on the left, and as the season progressed, Amorim increasingly turned to Amad to play as the right wingback to great effect.
Amad switch to wing-back
With a move for Bryan Mbeumo on the cards, it likely means the Cameroonian will play further up front on the right with the Ivorian starlet set for a permanent switch to wingback for the new season.
That effectively means the former Porto starlet could well become a backup option on either flank. And unlike Noussair Mazraoui, who can play in multiple positions like centre-back and even midfield, Diogo Dalot is not as versatile.
Utd District have relayed journalist Graeme Bailey as claiming that the Red Devils could be open to the right-back’s departure should they receive an attractive bid.
There was initial interest from Real Madrid, who have since signed Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool, which negates the need to add the United star. But long-term suitors Bayern Munich could take advantage.
“Next season, with the transfer business done by United, Dalot would likely stack up as the second-choice right wing-back, behind Amad.
Diogo Dalot not as indispensable
“Dalot is therefore available this summer, and United will not stand in his way if an offer arrives.”
While no price is mentioned in the report, £50 million was touted as the possible asking price in a previous article, and that would represent a decent profit for the 20-time English league champions.
Former manager Jose Mourinho had brought his compatriot to the club for £19 million back in 2018 and United could be about to sell him for more than twice that amount.
It would be a risk to sell him though, due to his impressive fitness record and his leadership quality, with Amorim terming him untouchable at one stage due to his importance. Quality-wise though, he might not be the right fit.
But with United unlikely to strengthen in the wing-back position this summer after missing out on Geovany Quenda, Diogo Dalot should be retained until the head coach has the chance to recruit a quality alternative.
Feature image George Wood via Getty Images
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
