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Man United in talks with star defender over a new deal amidst interest from Spain and Italy

Eric Bailly was forced off the pitch against Watford (Getty Images)
Eric Bailly was forced off the pitch against Watford (Getty Images)

Manchester United in talks with Eric Bailly over a new contract

According to The Sun, Manchester United are in talks with defender Eric Bailly over a new deal that will extend his stay at Old Trafford.

The 26-year-old joined the club from Villarreal in 2016. He has since made 98 appearances for the club, scoring once and assisting another. (h/t Transfermarkt)

A competent defender in his own right, he has shown glimpses of his undoubted talent. Unfortunately, injuries have massively limited his impact. In his four and a half years at United, Bailly has missed 92 games.

Eric Bailly Jose Mourinho Manchester United
Eric Bailly joined Manchester United in 2016

The Ivorian has made 13 appearances this season, eclipsing his tally from the whole of last season. He has mostly looked solid and impressed against Real Sociedad midweek.

With just 16 months left on his current deal, clubs from Spain and Italy have begun to show interest in the United number #3.

The player is now in talks with the Red Devils over a three-year extension. It is yet to be agreed and he now faces an uncertain future at the club if an agreement cannot be reached upon by the summer.

Eric Bailly
Eric Bailly has struggled with injuries throughout his time at Old Trafford

Securing one’s resources!

Bailly’s original deal would have expired next summer, but United enforced the one-year extension securing his future at the club until 2022. The club is not keen to lose him on a free and would rather sell him for a fee this summer if no fresh terms are agreed on.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is a fan of Bailly. He is, however, still keen to bring in a new partner for Harry Maguire. This could raise questions regarding the Ivorian’s first XI prospects at the club.

Harry Maguire Victor Lindelof
Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof have struggled in the new season

More Manchester United News

It is no secret that United need a new defender. In Bailly, they may already have the player they are seeking at the club. It promises to be an interesting few months for both the club and the defender.

Written by Pranav Nair

An Engineering postgraduate with a keen interest in statistics, pop culture and football.

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