Diogo Dalot is closing in on a move from FC Porto to Manchester United, according to a report in the Irish Independent. The report, which notes that sources in England and Portgual have confirmed the news, suggests that the move will be worth a fee close to £20m, and should be completed soon. Apparently, United boss Jose Mourinho was keen to move quickly to ward off other potential suitors for the defender.
After talk of a ‘breakthrough’ in negotiations this weekend, it certainly feels as if one of the pieces of United’s summer transfer business puzzle is close to falling into place. With reports also suggesting that Shakhtar Dontesk midfielder Fred is set to be complete today, all signs point towards United’s transfer brokers working hard to bring in the players that Mourinho requires. Having finished a full 19 points behind last season’s Premier League winners Manchester City, the pressure is on the Portuguese to respond and bridge the gap between his side and Pep Guardiola’s team.
The purchase of Dalot should certainly boost the club’s options at right back, which have been limited over the last two years. Matteo Darmian is far from fancied in the role, and is close to agreeing a move to Juventus. Antonio Valencia has been a steady choice in the role under Mourinho, but the Ecuadorian is 32 years of age, and cannot be expected to perform in the role every week. Dalot is expected to learn from the former Wigan winger, whilst also providing competition for the right back slot. With Darmian, Daley Blind and Marouane Fellaini all tipped to exit Old Trafford, Dalot is spearheading a refresh of United’s playing squad that will hopefully see them challenge City next season, whilst also progressing in the Champions League after last year’s lackadaisical exit to Sevilla in the last 16.
