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Anthony Martial will remain at Manchester United until the summer, despite reports linking him with a move this month.
Sky Sports reveal the French striker is “not interested” in a January transfer and prefers to remain at Old Trafford until the summer.
BREAKING: Anthony Martial wants to stay at Manchester United until the summer and is not interested in leaving Old Trafford this month 🇫🇷👹 pic.twitter.com/WnIkHRy1Ye
– Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) January 10, 2024
Recent reports indicated that the club had refused to activate the automatic one-year extension on Martial’s contract. This means the 27-year-old will become a free agent in the summer, as his contract expires in June.
As such, Martial is free to start talking to other clubs about a possible move at the end of the season.
At a recent press conference, Erik ten Hag claimed that Old Trafford officials were still speaking to Martial’s representatives, although this appears to be more of a formality than any significant intention to reach a new deal.
United sources reveal that the club expect Martial to leave on a free transfer within six months, should they fail to find a potential suitor in January.
A host of teams were linked with the striker this month, including West Ham and Wolves, but it was Fenerbahce who were reportedly at the front of the queue for his services.
Similarly, Saudi Pro League clubs maintain a long-standing interest in the Frenchman, although he is not believed to be interested in a move to the Middle East.
It appears, however, that Martial has rejected these potential offers.
The 27-year-old’s contract, believed to be worth £250,000 a week, is unlikely to be matched elsewhere and the player is likely well aware of this fact. He will also be aware of the potential signing bonuses he can command as a free agent in the summer.
United’s forward line has failed drastically this season. Rasmus Hojlund is struggling to lead the line domestically, despite his good form in the Champions League.
Martial may see an opportunity to re-establish himself as the main centre-forward at Old Trafford in the second half of the season. Or he can be content to sit on a comfortable and familiar bench, while he pockets millions of pounds of easy money.
