Claims that Manchester United and Anthony Martial are preparing to part ways in January have had light shed on them by trusted transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The French forward appears to have had a new lease of life at Old Trafford this season under Erik ten Hag. The Dutch coach served promise of his intentions for Martial by including him regularly over pre-season. And while hamstring and Achilles injuries have limited him to just two sub appearances in the Premier League, he already has two goals to his name.
However, there are reports emerging that Martial could finally be set for a parting of ways at Old Trafford. The 26-year-old was allowed to join Sevilla on loan last season, and they are seemingly one of two clubs also in the running for his signature.
Indeed, the Andalucians will reportedly compete with Valencia for his signature, per the report.
Furthermore, it was claimed that Martial has decided it would be in the best interests of his career were he to move on. As such, it was intimated that Martial will push United to allow him to depart. In addition, the Red Devils were prepared to cash in too, if the money was right.
Martial currently has two years left on his deal at Old Trafford. The club also retains an option of further year. However, his wages of around £250,000 a week are a serious drain on the club, hence the reason behind talk of his sale.
However, Romano insists a January window move for Martial is not on the agenda. He also indicates that the player very much has the trust of Ten Hag. As a result, he will be afforded further chances to impress.
Anthony Martial to leave Man Utd: the truth
Now returning to fitness, Martial will be hoping for plenty more opportunities in a hectic month for United.
And Romano claims he may even sign a new deal with United if he feels he’s getting regular football.
Indeed, Ten Hag turned to Martial ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo off the bench during the loss at Manchester City. And while much has been made about Ronaldo’s situation, particlarly by an irate Roy Keane, Romano says it illustrates the trust Ten Hag has in the Frenchman.
“Some fans were surprised to see Cristiano Ronaldo staying on the bench for this game, and Martial preferred by Erik ten Hag. But it’s been the case for some time now that the new manager has been keen to give the Frenchman a chance to show what he can do,” Romano explained in his Caught Offside column.
“Ten Hag has always been happy with Martial since some strong performances in July pre-season. And he’s still considered an important player for the club.”
On the suggestion Martial may sign a new deal, Ten Hag added: “Of course, before progressing on a new contract, Martial wants to make sure to have enough game time and this will be the key point.”
Martial makes vow to Erik ten Hag
Martial, meanwhile, has expressed his frustration at the manner of Manchester United’s 6-3 defeat at Manchester City.
That defeat undid all the recent good work from Ten Hag and his side.
But with a run of eight games before October is out, United will quickly get chance to bounce back.
Martial is certain to get more chances to impress in that time. And now Martial is promising Ten Hag the players will do all they can to ensure they are ready.
In also assessing how it felt to get back out on the pitch, Anthony Martial admits to some mixed emotions.
“For sure, I would have preferred not to score and win this game. But it’s always good to come back on the grass and score,” Martial told Canal+.
“We are really frustrated. That’s not what we wanted to do. But after this result, we are going to give everything to come back for the next game.
“We started the game really badly and then they were really efficient with the chances they had. It’s really complicated but it’s like that. And we are going to do everything to be ready for the next match.”
