Real Madrid ‘keen’ on unexpected Manchester United star in a move that could disrupt Ruben Amorim’s strategy.

According to reports, Real Madrid is considering a move for Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot. Carlo Ancelotti’s squad has been hit hard by injuries, with key players like Éder Militão, Dani Carvajal, and David Alaba sidelined due to cruciate ligament tears. This has forced Ancelotti to rely on young players and midfielders in defensive positions.

In their recent 2-0 Champions League loss to Liverpool at Anfield, Fede Valverde was deployed as a right-back, while 21-year-old Raúl Asencio partnered Antonio Rüdiger in central defense. However, Madrid bounced back with a 2-0 victory over city rivals Getafe in La Liga, thanks to goals from Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé, keeping them just one point behind leaders Barcelona.

Despite the domestic success, concerns remain about Madrid’s vulnerability in the Champions League, prompting interest in Dalot. The Portuguese defender, who was named Manchester United’s Players’ Player of the Year for 2023/24, has been a consistent performer and a key figure in Erik ten Hag’s team. He has also started both Premier League matches under new head coach Ruben Amorim.

Dalot, 25, joined United from Porto in 2018 and has won the Carabao Cup and FA Cup during his tenure. His contract runs until June 2028. Spanish outlet Relevo claims that Madrid has already made contact with Dalot’s representatives and that United might consider a fee of €50 million (£41 million). However, neither club has confirmed these discussions.

Dalot has earned widespread praise, including from Cristiano Ronaldo, who described him as “an example” in a 2022 interview with Piers Morgan Uncensored, calling him young, intelligent, and highly profes

sional.