Manchester United have confirmed the arrival of fullback Diogo Dalot from Portuguese side FC Porto. Dalot has signed a five-year contract and is the second summer signing the Red Devils have managed after signing Fred from Shakhtar Donetsk.
Dalot revealed, “Joining Manchester United is an unbelievable opportunity for me. I have grown up in Porto’s Academy and I am so thankful for everything they have done for me. But the chance of coming to the biggest club in the world is something I just couldn’t turn down.
“I’m excited about working with José Mourinho and learning everything I can from such a successful coach. I am looking forward to playing alongside the fantastic players in the squad.”
Who is Diogo Dalot?
Dalot, 19, has already made some shockwaves in Portuguese football with his tremendous talent. After making his debut last season, the 19-year-old is currently regarded as one of the most exciting talents in European football.
A product of the Porto youth academy, Diogo Dalot made his first professional appearance last season and finished the season with seven appearances in all competitions, six of which came in the Portuguese top flight. He also played the entire ninety minutes of the Champions League game against Liverpool, impressing the audience with his speed and physicality.
Following a trophyless season at Manchester United, Jose Mourinho was eager to strengthen the overall quality of his side. Fullbacks, in particular, have been seen as a huge weakness for the Red Devils with the likes of Luke Shaw and Matteo Darmian failing to impress.
Although Antonio Valencia has become a real asset to the team for the past couple of years, it’s probably fair to point out the fact that the Ecuador international is already in the final stage of his career. Therefore, the addition of a new right-back was imperative for the Red Devils and Dalot, in that regard, could prove to be a perfect solution for the Premier League giants.
Blessed with raw pace, Dalot could provide great service for Manchester United in the defensive department. In addition to having great physical attributes and smart movements, the youngster can also play as a midfielder as well as a left-back, which can be a real boost for Jose Mourinho.
Having just turned 19 not more than two and a half months ago, Dalot has already taken up the responsibility of FC Porto first team. Now a fully fledged member of the Portugal Under-20 side, the 19-year-old is destined for great things in the future.
Although one would argue that banking on such an inexperienced player might be a huge gamble from United’s perspective, the youngster has already shown immense talent and has a maturity well beyond his years. He has the traits which definitely fit into to a club like Manchester United.