Barcelona-linked Diogo Dalot 'wants to sign new Manchester United deal'

Diogo Dalot is reportedly keen to sign a new contract at Manchester United amid suggestions that Barcelona have made him a priority target for next year.

The 23-year-old became Man United's undisputed first-choice right-back in the second half of last season, and he has again been a key player for the Red Devils this term.

Dalot has contributed two assists in 13 appearances for Erik ten Hag's side in 2022-23, but there is currently a host of speculation surrounding his future at the club.

The Portugal international's existing deal at Old Trafford is due to expire next June, although the club have the option of activating a one-year extension until the summer of 2024.

Barcelona are already believed to have spoken to Dalot's representatives to discuss a possible move to Camp Nou in 2023, while Juventus are also thought to be keeping a close eye on the situation.

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However, according to the Manchester Evening News, the Portuguese is keen to stay with the Red Devils.

The report claims that Man United are yet to open talks with the defender over a fresh contract, which has also attracted the attention of Atletico Madrid, AC Milan and Roma.

Dalot spent the 2020-21 campaign on loan at Milan from Man United, making 33 appearances for the Italian giants, contributing two goals and three assists in the process.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka was the preferred right-back during Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's time as head coach, but the Englishman quickly lost his spot after the Norwegian was sacked.

Dalot is believed to be aware of the interest from Barcelona but is still determined to commit his long-term future to Man United due to his happiness at Old Trafford.

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The defender came through the youth system at Porto, representing the Portuguese giants on eight occasions in the first team, before making the move to the Red Devils.

Dalot scored twice for Portugal in their UEFA Nations League fixture with the Czech Republic last month, and he is widely expected to be a part of their squad for the World Cup.

The right-back, meanwhile, again played the full 90 minutes of Man United's goalless draw with Newcastle United in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon.

The Red Devils had opportunities to secure all three points against the Magpies but were made to settle for a share of the spoils, and they are now preparing for Wednesday's clash with Tottenham Hotspur.