Man Utd ‘worried’ as Euro giants put trusted Ten Hag man high on wanted list, with contract talks under serious threat

Manchester United are concerned about Diogo Dalot leaving Old Trafford amid an approach from one of Europe’s most iconic sides, according to a report.

Dalot has largely gained the trust of Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag this season, having played in 30 matches across all competitions so far. He has not been at his best since club football returned after the World Cup, though Ten Hag is hoping the right-back will get back to his best for the crucial end to the campaign.

Dalot represents Man Utd’s best option on the right side of defence until a new player is brought in for that position. Aaron Wan-Bissaka is also available to Ten Hag, but he does not have the attacking prowess needed to shine in the Dutchman’s system.

Man Utd are eyeing top players such as Jeremie Frimpong and Denzel Dumfries to improve the right-back area. However, until one of those players can be brought in, the Red Devils must keep Dalot.

The Portuguese had his contract extended by one year in December, alongside team-mates Marcus Rashford, Fred and Luke Shaw. Man Utd had options to extend each of their terms by 12 months and they did this to prevent them from becoming free agents this summer.

Man Utd are in talks with Dalot over a new five-year contract. As part of this, Dalot is being offered a pay rise to reflect his importance to the team.

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While progress is being made, there is a threat in the form of Barcelona. And Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo have provided their information on Barcelona’s plans.

Club president Joan Laporta has signalled the need for a new right-back. And Dalot is one of three options the Spanish titans are considering.

Barcelona initiate contact over Man Utd swoop

Barca have supposedly made contact with Man Utd for Dalot. They are trying to scupper Man Utd’s contract discussions by letting the player know he could move to the Camp Nou if he refrains from signing a new deal.

The lure of Barca is obvious given their history and the successful project being run by manager Xavi. As such, there is genuine ‘worry’ at Man Utd that Dalot could end the contract talks and push for a move to Barca.

Another reason the Red Devils are ‘fearful’ is that they would not be able to demand big money for the 23-year-old. With his contract running down, Barca would not have to pay his transfer value to complete a deal. Man Utd’s valuation is unknown, although transfermarkt put it at €32million (£28.5m).

Barca are looking at other players, just in case their pursuit of Dalot falls through. And Man Utd will be desperate for them to land one of these two stars instead.

The first is Borussia Dortmund full-back Thomas Meunier. Like Dalot, his deal expires in June 2024, so he is facing a similar kind of decision on his future.

Barca are also plotting an ambitious raid on Bayern Munich for Benjamin Pavard. However, he is close to penning a new contract with Bayern, so this avenue looks unlikely.

Meanwhile, a Man Utd loanee ‘feels at home’ with his temporary club and is gunning for a permanent move there, according to one source.