Juventus set to fight Real Madrid to sign "intelligent" Man United player

Juventus and Real Madrid are battling each other to sign Man United right-back Diogo Dalot, according to new reports.

Dalot has become an ever-present in the United starting XI under Erik ten Hag this season. He has started every game in the Premier League.

The 23-year-old has been ahead of Aaron Wan-Bissaka in the pecking order when both players are available. But Wan-Bissaka has missed substantial periods of the season through injury.

Dalot's current contract at Old Trafford expires next summer, having originally been signed in 2018 under the management of Jose Mourinho.

Speaking after the deal was completed, Mourinho predicted: "He has all the attributes that a full-back needs: physicality, tactical intelligence and technical quality, combined with a Porto academy mentality, which prepares players for the maturity they need at the professional level.

"In his age group, he is the best full-back in Europe, and we all believe he has a bright future ahead of him at Manchester United."

It has taken time for Dalot to fulfil that prophecy, but United fans are now starting to see the best out of the Portugal international.

However, they may not be able to see him wearing their club's shirt for too much longer.

Juventus, Real Madrid targeting Dalot

According to Italian outlet Tuttomercatoweb, Juventus are targeting the signing of Dalot as they look to enhance their full-back options.

At right-back, the Italian giants have three senior options, with Danilo, Juan Cuadrado and Mattia de Sciglio all capable of playing there.

The free transfer segment of this deal will also appeal for Juve, who have completed similar deals over the years for other top stars.

However, the same report claims that Real Madrid are also interested in his services, potentially as a long-term replacement, or competition, for Dani Carvajal.

The lure of Real may turn out to be too much for Dalot to stay in England. And according to the player's agent, as per the Daily Mirror, the 23-year-old is not likely to sign another deal at Old Trafford.

However, the club holds an additional year's extension option on the player, which they could trigger to avoid losing him for free.