"I'm told..." - Romano claims Man Utd are desperate to complete deal "as soon as possible"

Manchester United are keen to tie Diogo Dalot down to a new long-term contract "as soon as possible", transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has claimed.

Dalot, 23, has strengthened his grip on the right-back position at United this season with a series of impressive performances prior to the World Cup.

His contract was due to expire at the end of the season before United activated a one-year extension clause earlier this month.

In addition to Dalot, United also extended the contracts of Marcus Rashford, Luke Shaw and Fred for a further 12 months.

Portugal international Dalot is now set to remain with United until at least the summer of 2024 but the Premier League club are expected to hold talks with the his representatives over a new long-term deal.

Ten Hag keen to keep Dalot

Erik ten Hag's preference for Dalot at right-back could mean that Aaron Wan-Bissaka is sold in the January transfer window.

Wan-Bissaka had played just four minutes for United under Ten Hag prior to the winter break but has featured in their last two matches, with Dalot currently sidelined with an injury he sustained while playing for Portugal at the World Cup.

Nevertheless, Wan-Bissaka continues to be linked with a move away in January – with his former club Crystal Palace and Wolves reportedly interested in him.

However, transfer expert Romano has suggested Wan-Bissaka will only be allowed to leave if United can sign a replacement, with Ten Hag's top priority at right-back convincing Dalot to commit his future to the club.

"From what I'm told, United have had many conversations with agents, but it depends on Wan-Bissaka," Romano told GiveMeSport.

"Their main priority at right-back is to sign a new deal with Diogo Dalot.

"So, they want Dalot to sign a new deal as soon as possible and then focus on signing a right-back."

Wan-Bissaka started for United in Tuesday's 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest.

With Dalot still an injury doubt, he could keep his place in the side for their next match against Wolves at Molineux on December 31.

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Topics: Manchester United, Erik Ten Hag, Diogo Dalot, Football, Premier League, Transfers

Rory O'Callaghan

Rory O'Callaghan is Editorial Lead at SPORTbible. He has previously worked for Sky Sports News, MailOnline and Reach covering football, cricket, boxing and MMA. Tested daily as a Liverpool fan in a Manchester office.

@rory_ocallaghan