Manchester United are said to be planning to extend the contracts of five players in the coming months to avoid a mass departure.
Marcus Rashford, David de Gea, Luke Shaw, Diogo Dalot, and Fred’s contracts are all set to expire in June. However, United have the option to extend each of them for another year, which they intend to do. Drawing from reports, all of the extensions will be finalized before the end of the January transfer season.
United fans will welcome an extension for Rashford in particular. Since Erik ten Hag’s hiring, the England star has enjoyed a renaissance in form. Rashford was linked with a summer move to Paris Saint-Germain, but it never looked like he’d leave Old Trafford.
Meanwhile, De Gea remains the club’s No. 1 goalkeeper under Ten Hag and is the club’s second-highest earning, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo, whose contract is also set to expire.
Despite United’s option, it is doubtful that Ronaldo’s contract will be extended. The Portuguese striker attempted to quit United this summer and has found himself on the bench in Ten Hag’s first few games as questions about his role under the Dutch coach continue.
It remains to be seen whether Diogo Dalot will remain at United, in the long run. The player has been a consistent starter for Ten Hag this season. However, it is no secret that United was looking for a new right-back in the summer. Luke Shaw’s position is also in jeopardy after losing it to new acquisition Tyrell Malacia, while Fred’s role at United is under continual criticism.
United held off on giving new contracts to Shaw and Fred in May while they awaited Ten Hag’s approval. By tying all of the players to contracts, United will have the option of selling them for a profit next summer if they so desire. Phil Jones and Axel Tuanzebe appear set to be released on free transfers, while Tom Heaton’s contract expires in June.