Man United are 'preparing to let Diogo Dalot go' as defensive overhaul begins

Manchester United are preparing to listen to offers for Diogo Dalot as part of a major defensive overhaul in 2027.

The 27-year-old has been the first-choice right-back under Michael Carrick and has started all but one Premier League game so far this season, despite some inconsistent displays.

However, former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Dalot could be allowed to leave for the right price as plans are in place for significant changes at the back.

While United would be initially reluctant to let the Portugal international go, with others ahead of him on the list of sales, they have not ruled out entertaining offers.

Dalot has long been criticised for his inconsistent performances, but as he enters the final two years of his contract, there is a feeling he could be sold in a bid to raise funds.

Could Diogo Dalot be allowed to leave Man United?

Brown told Football Insider ahead of the January transfer window that Man United were reluctant to sell Dalot as he remains part of their plans given a lack of depth.

After failing to strengthen their back line during the summer window, their stance is expected to remain the same, but that could change if the right offer arrives.

Man United are aiming to spend big on their defence in 2027, and raising funds through Dalot's sale could enable them to land significant upgrades in his position.

"Dalot is a bit like marmite , some people love him and some think he's not good enough," Brown told Football Insider.

"The truth of that is probably somewhere in the middle, because he's a decent option and he's done a good job, but you wouldn't say he's a real top-class right-back.

"He's been reliable under Michael Carrick, that's why he picks him every week, even if he can be a bit inconsistent at times.

"But there are going to be big changes to the Man United defence, when you look across the back line there are probably four or five players who they feel they could upgrade on.

"I think at the moment they will be reluctant to lose Dalot, he's not one they're going to be pushing out, but at the same time they haven't ruled out letting him go.

"If the right offer comes in, I'm sure they will be ready to listen to it, and if they are making major changes then I expect they'll be bracing to receive those offers."

What is Man United's new transfer priority?

Amid ongoing speculation about Dalot and a number of his Man United teammates, plans are being put in place behind the scenes ahead of what could be a busy 2027.

There is a growing feeling that key areas of Carrick's squad are still in need of improvement, and ahead of the January window, they are determined to add to their squad.

Football Insider revealed on 4 October that Man United will prioritise the addition of new defensive options when the window opens, adding to the speculation of an overhaul.

After failing to address their concerns during the summer, the Red Devils have endured a slow start to the season, and have won just one of their five Premier League games.

As a result, they are planning to make moves in the January window, with a left-back and centre-back highest on their list, although they could also wait until next summer to act.