Manchester United could be about to make a huge mistake in the transfer window after Diogo Dalot was linked with a permanent Old Trafford exit.

What's the story?

According to The Express, the 22-year-old is one of several fringe players who will be allowed to depart Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side this summer.

Despite struggling for form throughout his United career, Dalot impressed during a season-long loan spell with Italian giants AC Milan last term, showcasing his top-class potential.

Manchester United heading for a mistake

Throughout his 12-month spell at San Siro, the Portugal Under-21 international made 33 appearances in all competitions, achieving a highly respectable 6.76 WhoScored rating along the way.

His contribution to the success of Stefano Pioli's charges was sizeable, making 1.5 tackles, 1.2 interceptions, and 1.8 clearances per league game as the Rossoneri finished in second place in the Serie A standings.

Dalot's aforementioned figures had him amongst the top-six performers compared to his teammates for each attribute, highlighting the progress he made in his time away from English football.

The youngster's impressive displays earned praise from Milan manager Pioli, who claimed the United gem "will become a complete player” in the future.

Although it's easy to understand why large sections of the Red Devils' fanbase and the club's hierarchy may be prepared to cut ties with Dalot, selling him this summer could prove to be a costly error.

After making just 35 first-team appearances since making a £20 million move to United from Porto back in 2018, the pacey full-back found himself on the fringes of Solskjaer's squad.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka was brought in as the club's long-term solution to their right-sided conundrum, but the former Crystal Palace man's own attacking deficiencies have seen Kieran Trippier linked with a move to the 20-time English champions.

While the England international may be a sensible short-term signing, he's fast approaching his 31st birthday, and before long, Solskjaer will be faced with the same issue.

However, allowing Dalot another campaign or two to develop on loan away from the intense spotlight at United could be the perfect solution.

He appears to have the potential to turn into the ideal modern-day full-back, and Solskjaer should keep faith in him a little while longer, even if that means loaning him out for another season.

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