Real Madrid need fresh blood at right-back. Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vázquez are both over 30, and Álvaro Odriozola isn’t in Carlo Ancelotti’s plans.

João Cancelo was the chief target, but Madrid’s interest has faded amid doubts over his character. On loan at Bayern, he's set to stay in Germany.

Madrid’s attentions have turned to Diogo Dalot, who Manchester United have been trying to tie down to an extended deal for some months.

He's out of contract in 2024, so Los Blancos have two options: seek a knockdown fee this summer, or - as with David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger - try to nab him on a free next year.

Dalot, 23, is an established performer. He has displaced Cancelo in the Portugal team, and impressed at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

He has had several injuries this  season, but has played over 20  games for United. He has scored  once and supplied three assists.

6ft tall, Dalot has excellent physical attributes. A good passer of the ball, he offers fine link-up play. He has also played for AC Milan and Porto.

Ancelotti knows Dalot well from his time in England with Everton. When José Mourinho was United boss, he spoke glowingly of his potential.

“He has all the attributes that a full-back needs: physicality, tactical intelligence and technical quality. We all believe he has a bright future.”

Former United team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo has also praised his Portugal colleague: “He’s young, he’s smart, he's intelligent and he’s very professional.”

Madrid are also considering promoting right-back Vinícius Tobías from the academy, but a more seasoned campaigner needs to be brought in too.