GOAL reported that before Roma visit Manchester United for their Champions League clash at Old Trafford, Diogo Dalot could soon become a transfer target again. GOAL also reported that Roma could renew their interest after facing Dalot as an opponent.
Roma's previous move
Roma came close to bringing Dalot to Trigoria in the summer of 2021, when José Mourinho was in the dugout. Talks continued for a long time, but Manchester United would not agree to a loan with an option to buy. Roma, still grappling with serious Financial Fair Play restrictions, could not make the move any other way.
Manchester United situation and contract
Dalot recently reached 250 appearances for Manchester United. GOAL reported that Dalot started 80% of those matches. GOAL reported that Dalot has said he is happy in Manchester and is not thinking about the future, particularly given the difficult situation facing a team to which he is extremely attached.
AC Milan spell and Mourinho's view
Dalot joined AC Milan on loan in the 2020-21 season and recently spoke about the experience in The Player's Tribune. He said: "It was one of the most important seasons of my career. I remember the way the club welcomed me and how welcome I felt in an important year for me, when I needed to regain confidence in my game. AC Milan helped me get back to that level. Every day Paolo Maldini was at the side of the pitch watching us train. Rain, sunshine or cold, he was always there, in a suit and tie. He would tell me: "mark like this" or "go in for a tackle". Other times he would tell me off because I was trying too hard. "You're an extraordinary player, relax, you'll see that everything will be fine"."
Mourinho said of Dalot in 2018: "He can become Manchester United's starting full-back for the next 10 years because he has extraordinary qualities."
Enquiries from clubs
GOAL reported that Dalot is happy in Manchester, but many clubs are approaching his entourage. GOAL reported that in recent weeks several major European clubs have made enquiries to Dalot's representatives, as have Inter, AC Milan and Juventus in Italy. Nothing concrete has emerged.
