Diogo Dalot has suggested that he expects to sign a new long-term contract at Manchester United.

Since moving to Old Trafford in 2018, Dalot has not always been regarded as first choice, spending the 2020-21 campaign on loan at AC Milan.

However, the temporary stay at San Siro has proven crucial to his development, the 23-year-old making 38 appearances in the Premier League since his return.

Before a recent injury, Dalot was one of the first names on the team sheet under Erik ten Hag, making 20 outings in the top flight and Europa League before the World Cup.

The Portugal international went on to make three starts in Qatar, further enhancing his reputation, and encouraging all parties to hold negotiations regarding his future.

As it stands, Dalot has 18 months remaining on his contract at the Theatre of Dreams, and there is currently no prospect of the player being allowed to depart the club.

Nevertheless, the former Porto youngster has acknowledged that discussions are ongoing as he bids to extend his stay at United in the long term.

In an interview with the Daily Mail, Dalot said: "We are in a position to say that we are negotiating and seeing how both parties will benefit, but it is no secret that I am happy to be here, so we will see how things go.

"I love this club and I love to play for this club. Progressively we are in a good direction as a team.

"For me, this is the most important part and hopefully individually I can continue to help the team as I am doing."

In total, Dalot has made 70 starts and 17 substitute outings for United in all competitions, chipping in with two goals and five assists.

Since April, he has been preferred to Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who has impressed in Dalot's absence amid speculation that he may leave United during the January transfer window.

The pair are both competing for a starting spot for United's EFL Cup quarter-final tie with Charlton Athletic on Tuesday night ahead of the derby with Manchester City at the weekend. body check tags ::