Solskjaer To Count On Diogo Dalot Next Season
AC Milan’s hope of signing on-loan Manchester United full-back Diogo Dalot on a permanent deal has taken a hit after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer confirmed he will be part of his plans for next season.
Dalot joined the Red Devils from FC Porto in the summer of 2018 but his progress at the club was hampered by injuries and the arrival of Aaron Wan-Bissaka from Crystal Palace last season pushed the Portuguese further down the pecking order at Old Trafford.
Dalot was sent on loan to AC Milan at the start of this season to build up his fitness and get some game time, and the 21-year-old has achieved both aims, making 22 appearances across all competitions and scoring two goals.
For the second time in a week, Dalot will come up against his parent club when AC Milan host Manchester United in the second leg of the Europa League round of 16 stage at the San Siro on Thursday.
Regardless of the outcome, Dalot’s stay in Italy is set to be a short one, with Solskjaer already planning of making him a big part of his plans next season.
"The plan was always for Diogo this season, or the main thing for Diogo, was to be fit," Solskjaer said at a press conference ahead of his side's encounter against the Rossoneri.
"He never managed to be fit for a long spell when he was here and was unfortunate with injuries.
"Now he's kept fit all season; he's been available for them. He's playing at a big club, big expectations and a great history, so it's been a good year for him.
"So, of course, I've been very pleased with his development this season. He's our player and we're looking forward to having him back."