Carrick Puts Foot Down: United Block Dalot's Madrid Exit

Jose Mourinho's impending arrival at Real Madrid has sparked fresh transfer intrigue, but Manchester United are having none of it when it comes to Diogo Dalot.

The former United boss, currently at Benfica, is set to take the reins at the Bernabeu for a second spell. With Dani Carvajal departing Madrid, Mourinho has identified a need for defensive reinforcement on the right flank and has reportedly indicated to his prospective employers that Dalot would fit the bill perfectly.

It's hardly surprising given Mourinho's well-documented admiration for his fellow Portuguese. Back in December 2018, he lavished praise on the then-teenager, declaring: "Everybody knows that he has fantastic potential. I don't want to compare, especially not the number of titles but he is probably the same age as Gary Neville when he came into the first team. Probably he can follow Neville in this dynamic of more than 10 years as United's right-back, with amazing conditions to improve, because as I was saying he's 19 years old."

Dalot has since vindicated that faith spectacularly, establishing himself among the Premier League's elite right-backs whilst demonstrating genuine versatility across the left side as well.

Yet Carrick, set to take the manager's job on a permanent basis, has made his position crystal clear: Dalot isn't going anywhere. The interim boss has been emphatic in telling United's hierarchy that the 27-year-old remains fundamental to his plans, and his advocacy has resonated with INEOS.

The club's hierarchy have now resolved to block any summer departure, with Dalot's form under Carrick identified internally as one of the standout success stories since the former midfielder assumed management duties. His consistency and tactical intelligence have made him one of Carrick's most trusted operators.

Rather than lose their man, United are now preparing to open contract negotiations with Dalot, keen to secure his long-term future with an improved deal. His current terms run until summer 2028, with a further year's extension option already in place.