Manchester United winger Ashley Young has had very little first-team football this season. His increased versatility was a major factor in the former England international featuring in at least 25 matches over the last three seasons. Even when the club was going through several uncertain periods under former managers, Young was often played at left back or in the left-wing positions. Just when it seemed that Young would also help Jose Mourinho have a convenient option on the left side, the 31-year-old has been increasingly marginalised by the Portuguese boss.
Young featured in only 10 games this season with only two of them from the starting line-up in the Premier League. As a result, it is becoming increasingly likely that the 31-year-old may depart the club even as early as in January. However, rumours claim that Manchester United are not keen on sending the player away from Old Trafford.
Jose Mourinho has 25 players capable of playing in the outfield – three players more than his liking. Following the departure of Morgan Schneiderlin, it has been rumoured that the club would be selling two more names in order to bring down the squad size to 22 outfield players. Young may be one of the likely candidates along with Bastian Schweinsteiger. Yet, it seems that the versatility of the former England international continues to be of a major appeal. It remains to be seen as United will be able to hold on to Young amidst rumours of interest from China.
The Sun has reported that the Chinese Super League side Shandong Luneng has been tracking the former Aston Villa man and could make a move for him in coming days. The League has been able to attract big names like Carlos Tevez and Oscar by offering them insane amounts of money. A player like Young, who has little to do in the starting line-up or even in the squad, may often be an appealing transfer target. Young has a contract with United until the summer of 2018. Even if the club do decide to send him out, it may very well be in the summer and not in this January transfer window.
After several rumours about the club bringing in Benfica defender Victor Lindelof and Southampton defender Jose Fonte, United are yet to make a move in the transfer window.
About from interest in China, a number of Premier League and Championship clubs have also reportedly inquired about the winger in recent weeks. His former club Watford are believed to be one of the suitors, and they are ready to take the player on a temporary basis until the end of the season. Young was a £17 million signing from Aston Villa in 2011. He has managed to win the Premier League and FA Cup in his time at United.
