The ongoing World Cup break has given Manchester United a chance to settle on their recruitment plans as they approach the January transfer window. They originally hadn't planned on spending anything next month after a bumper summer of investment, but drastic circumstances have led to a change in direction.
United could well look at signing World Cup stars Cody Gakpo or Gonçalo Ramos as they go in search of a new striker following Cristiano Ronaldo's release. They aren't the only standout stars worthy of their attention, though.
Despite being on the bench for Portugal's first two games, United full-back Diogo Dalot has since been one of the best performers at the tournament. He has registered assists in back-to-back matches, making up for lost time and claiming the right-back role with the same firm grip he has at club level.
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The 23-year-old has started all but one of United's 21 games this season, and only missed the 2-1 win at Fulham through suspension. His success at international level means he will likely miss the Carabao Cup tie against Burnley, but beyond that, he'll go back to being undroppable for Erik ten Hag.
With few credible back-up options at the club, signing a new right-back will remain a priority for United heading into next year, but more important is tying Dalot down to a new contract for the foreseeable future.
The Portuguese right-back is out of contract at the end of the season and could technically sign a pre-contract agreement with an overseas side in the January window, though that would be waived if United triggered their option of a one-year extension in his current deal.
It means that in the worst case, United still have over a year to sort out his future, but he certainly deserves to be rewarded right now for his impressive form.
Barcelona retain an interest in the Portuguese full-back and there is also admiration from the likes of Juventus, Atletico Madrid, AC Milan and Roma.
Importantly, though, Dalot is happy at United and wants to remain at the club as long as they offer him an improved deal that reflects his increased importance to the team.
Ten Hag has been keen to ensure that United don't repeat past mistakes by rushing into talks and rewarding players when they are not performing well enough to warrant a new deal, but Dalot is certainly an exception to the rule given how consistent his level of performance has been this season.
His display against Switzerland on Tuesday night was another reminder of just how far he has come over the past year, with the full-back now putting in complete performances that showcase both his defensive stability and attacking flair.
Dalot has always been known for offering an attacking edge from full-back, and showed that with an assist and an impressive 89% passing accuracy, but he also married it by winning all four of his attempted tackles, making two blocks, and making a goal line clearance.
He still needs to perform at a high level for a prolonged period of time before he cements his place as one of the best modern-day full-backs, but based on his current form alone, he is certainly in the discussion.
With the focus on who United might sign to bolster their right-back role next year, they can't lose any focus on ensuring they keep hold of the Portuguese in the first place.
For all the talk of January signings, a new contract for Dalot would be as good as any.
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