Manchester United right-back Diogo Dalot is Barcelona's 'best placed' target for the January transfer window, according to reports from Spain.

The Lowdown: Dalot linked with Barcelona

The 23-year-old has enjoyed an upturn in fortunes so far this season, becoming United's first-choice right-back and making eight starts in the Premier League.

Dalot has been linked with Barcelona in recent days, as the La Liga club's manager Xavi eyes up defensive reinforcements, with reports that the Blaugrana have already commenced negotiations over a possible move for the Portugal defender.

Another update suggests that this is a transfer rumour which very much has legs to it.

The Latest: Barcelona's 'best placed' target

According to Spanish outlet Sport [via Sport Witness], Dalot is Barcelona's 'best placed' target at right-back, with 'appropriate decisions' to be made regarding a January move.

The 23-year-old's current United deal expires next summer, at which point he would be able to depart on a free transfer.

The Verdict: Dalot having a good season

Losing Dalot would be a blow for United, with the defender taking his new game to another level so far this season and even scoring twice for Portugal in their 4-0 UEFA Nations League win over Czech Republic in recent weeks.

At 23, he still very much a maturing player, so the Red Devils could end up losing him at just the wrong time, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka their only other natural option at right-back.

The hope is that Dalot decides to extend his stay at United but the lure of Barcelona can be huge for Portuguese players, with past greats such as Luis Figo and Deco representing the Catalan giants.

They also seem to be on an upward trajectory under Xavi, who currently has them top of La Liga, so that too could tempt the right-back into joining Barca.