According to journalist Graeme Bailey, Manchester United could look to extend Diogo Dalot’s contract after impressing Erik ten Hag so far this season.
After their disastrous start which saw them concede six goals in two games, the Red Devils have gone on a huge winning run and now find themselves fifth in the Premier League table after just seven games.
One player that has helped with this turn in form and has improved his game tremendously under Ten Hag is Dalot, who was seemingly out of favour at the club along with teammate Aaron Wan-Bissaka but has not started to pick up consistent minutes.
As a result of this good form, Bailey recently claimed during a Talking Transfers podcast episode that the club could look to reward Dalot with a new contract as his current deal runs out at the end of the season.
Bailey said, “They’ve got a year option on him [Diogo Dalot]. And he’s got a lot of interest in abroad Dalot. You know, from his time at Milan, Barcelona, we’re looking at him. And yeah, I think it’s very much part of Ten Hag’s plans now. Ten Hag has liked the way he’s trained… he looks well on his way to getting a big new contract from United as well.” (45:12)
TIF Thoughts on Dalot…
While Dalot featured 24 times in the Premier League last season, he failed to pick up any goals or assists throughout the season and looked certain to be replaced this past summer. However, the club failed to bring in a new right-back and in return, Dalot has turned his form around.
So far this season the Portuguese defender has picked up two assists in his eight appearances so far this season, including against Southampton which helped win them the game at just 1-0.
While he has shown he can chip in and help the attack, he has also improved his defensive stats as he currently ranks in the 90th percentile for clearances, 84th for aerials duels won, and 81st for tackles compared to other fullbacks in Europe’s top five leagues. (Fbref)
On current form, Dalot deserves a new contract and more time to prove himself as a starting calibre right back for Ten Hag’s side. He is still just 23 as well which means if he does prove himself he could be their right back of choice for the next decade.
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