Real Madrid will reportedly move for Manchester United's Diogo Dalot next summer if they are unsuccessful in their attempts to bring in Trent Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer.
Alexander-Arnold's contract with Liverpool is due to expire next summer, and Real Madrid are keeping a close eye on the situation, with Los Blancos hoping to sign him on a free.
However, a recent report claimed that the England international is determined to pen a fresh deal at Anfield, with discussions expected to intensify in the near future.
According to GIVEMESPORT, Real Madrid are therefore preparing to switch their attention to Dalot, viewing the Portugal international as their number one alternative to the Liverpool full-back.
Los Blancos are looking to bring in a long-term replacement for Dani Carvajal, and Dalot's attacking profile makes him an attractive proposition for the reigning European and Spanish champions.
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Real Madrid 'view Dalot as Alexander-Arnold alternative'
The Portugal international has once again operated at left-back for Man United this season due to the team's injury problems in that area of the field.
Luke Shaw remains on the sidelines with a calf problem, while Tyrell Malacia has not featured since the 2022-23 campaign due to a serious knee injury which has required two separate operations.
New signing Noussair Mazraoui has been featuring at right-back this season for the Red Devils, with Dalot on the left, and he has noticeably been moving into a midfield area in recent matches.
Dalot arrived at Man United from Porto in July 2018, and he has represented the 20-time English champions on 165 occasions, scoring six goals and registering 11 assists in the process.
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Is Dalot the ideal replacement for Carvajal?
There remain question marks over Dalot's defensive abilities, but there is no question that he has developed into one of the best full-backs in the Premier League.
Dalot was named Man United's Players' Player of the Year for the 2023-24 campaign, making 50 appearances in all competitions, and he is now one of the first names on Erik ten Hag's team sheet.
The Portuguese signed a new contract at Old Trafford in May 2023, with his current deal running until June 2028, with the option of a further 12 months.
Man United are therefore in a strong position when it comes to the defender's future, but not too many players turn down Real Madrid, and he could be the ideal acquisition for Los Blancos if Alexander-Arnold, as expected, pens a new deal with Arne Slot's side.
