Ole Gunnar Solskjaer keen to keep hold of Diogo Dalot

According to ESPN, Manchester United boss, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is keen to keep Barcelona target Diogo Dalot at the club.

The Portuguese right-back was one of Jose Mourinho’s last signings at the club. He has struggled to feature this season and has fallen behind Aaron Wan-Bissaka in the pecking order.

The 21-year-old has made just 33 appearances for the Red Devils in his two years at the club. Injuries haven’t helped the player’s cause, hampering his chances to make an impact on the pitch.

Yet, he appears to have a future at Old Trafford. With his contract running until 2023, United have no reason to actively pursue a sale this summer.

Solskjaer is keen for the Portuguese defender to stay and fight for his place. The Norwegian is also keen to make use of the 21-year-old’s versatility to play on either flank.

The same was relayed by the player in February. Speaking to United Review (h/t Express), he reiterated his desire to stay and fight for his place.

At just 21, the defender can only get better with time. He has shown enough promise that he can be an excellent player in the future. It would have been presumptuous of United to cut their losses so soon, especially given the paucity of top-class full-backs in the market today.

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Dalot is a player who is capable of contributing both to the attack and the defence. Although a right-back, his ability to play on the other flank is an added bonus.

Although Wan-Bissaka is the undisputed first choice at right-back, the Englishman cannot play every game. Being pushed by a competitor is also likely to keep him on his toes.

Creating a competitive environment is necessary to inculcate a winning habit. Solskjaer looks to be on the right track.