Manchester United Won’t Extend Anthony Martial’s Contract, January Transfer Possible
Manchester United have reportedly decided against activating the 12-month extension clause in Anthony Martial’s contract, paving the way for the French striker to leave the club for free at the end of the 2023-24 season.
Martial’s Struggles and Declining Performance
Despite a promising start to his career at Old Trafford after joining from Monaco in 2015, Martial has failed to consistently live up to his potential. While he boasts impressive career stats with Manchester United, registering 90 goals and 55 assists in 317 appearances, his form has dipped significantly in recent seasons.
In the current campaign, Martial has only managed two goals and two assists in 19 appearances, primarily as a substitute. Injuries have further hampered his impact under Erik ten Hag’s management. His inability to complete full matches, including lasting just 56 minutes in the recent 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth before being replaced by summer signing Rasmus Hojlund, has garnered criticism from pundits and supporters alike.
Manchester United Opt Against Extending Martial’s Contract
With Martial’s inconsistent performances and injury concerns, Manchester United have chosen not to trigger the contract extension clause that would have kept him at the club until 2025. This decision follows a similar approach taken with David de Gea, while other players like Luke Shaw, Marcus Rashford, Diogo Dalot, and Fred received extensions last December.
Although Manchester United are open to letting Martial leave for free next summer, a January departure for a suitable fee is also a possibility. This potential transfer would provide an opportunity for the club to recoup some of the £51.3m they invested in the French striker in 2015.
Manchester United Seeking a New Striker
With the likelihood of Martial’s departure, Manchester United are expected to intensify their search for a new center forward. The club is reportedly targeting an experienced option to complement and provide competition for Rasmus Hojlund, who is yet to score in the Premier League despite netting five goals in the Champions League.
Several names have emerged as potential targets for Manchester United, including Porto’s Mehdi Taremi, RB Leipzig’s Timo Werner, Stuttgart’s Serhou Guirassy, and Borussia Dortmund’s Donyell Malen. However, recent statements from RB Leipzig’s coach suggest that Timo Werner might not be available in January.
Anthony Martial’s time at Manchester United appears to be nearing its conclusion, with the club opting not to extend his contract. The French striker’s inconsistent form and injury problems have ultimately led to this decision. A January transfer could materialize, but regardless of the timing, Manchester United are expected to actively pursue a new center forward to strengthen their attacking options.