Manchester United have confirmed the signing of young defender Diogo Dalot from FC Porto. The youngster becomes United’s second summer signing after the arrival of Brazil midfielder Fred yesterday. The 19-year-old Portugal Under-21 international came through the Porto youth system and made his debut in Portugal’s Primeira Liga earlier this year. United manager and fellow Portuguese, Jose Mourinho believes: “Diogo is an extremely talented young defender with all the qualities to quickly become a great player for this club. He has all the attributes that a full-back needs: physicality, tactical intelligence and technical quality, combined with a Porto Academy mentality which prepares players for the maturity they need at the professional level. In his age group, he is the best full-back in Europe and we all believe he has a bright future ahead of him at Manchester United.”
The youngster said: “Joining Manchester United is an unbelievable opportunity for me. I have grown up in Porto’s Academy and I am so thankful for everything they have done for me. But the chance of coming to the biggest club in the world is something I just couldn’t turn down. I’m excited about working with Jose Mourinho and learning everything I can from such a successful coach. I am looking forward to playing alongside the fantastic players in the squad.”
The Premier League club have secured the young defender on a five-year contract, with an option to extend for a further year.