Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick wants Diogo Dalot to stay at Old Trafford amid reported interest from Real Madrid.

Real Madrid are set to appoint José Mourinho as manager for a second spell, with the Portuguese coach currently in charge of Benfica. Mourinho will return to the Bernabéu after the season ends.

With Dani Carvajal leaving Madrid at the end of the campaign, Mourinho is looking for a right-back to compete with Trent Alexander-Arnold, who joined from Liverpool in the summer of 2025.

According to transfer reports, Mourinho has “indicated” to Madrid officials that he would be “open” to signing Dalot. The Portuguese coach has previously spoken highly of his compatriot. In a December 9, 2018 interview on Man Utd’s official website, Mourinho said: “Everybody knows that he has fantastic potential… Probably he can follow Neville in this dynamic of more than 10 years as United’s right-back.”

Since then, Dalot has become a regular in the Premier League and can play on both flanks.

Carrick is reportedly happy with the 27-year-old’s performances. TEAMtalk reports that the interim manager does not want United to consider selling Dalot and has made his position clear internally. Carrick is expected to take over as permanent manager and views Dalot as a key part of his plans.

“Dalot’s form under Carrick has been viewed internally as one of the more impressive success stories since the former midfielder stepped into management at United,” TEAMtalk stated. “Sources indicate Carrick values the 27-year-old’s consistency and tactical intelligence, making Dalot one of the manager’s most trusted performers.”

United’s co-owners, INEOS, are said to have accepted Carrick’s stance and will block any exit for Dalot in the summer window. The club are also reportedly “increasingly open to discussing an improved long-term contract” with the defender.

Dalot is under contract at Old Trafford until the summer of 2028, with United holding an option to extend for a further year.