Pranav Nair
Axel Tuanzebe expected to leave Manchester United on loan this summer
According to Manchester Evening News, Manchester United starlet Axel Tuanzebe is expected to leave the club on loan this summer.
The 23-year-old was effectively the fourth-choice centre-back at United this past season. He was behind the likes of Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof and Eric Bailly in the Red Devils pecking order. As things stand, he could be set to spend another season at Old Trafford, predominantly on the bench.
The United academy graduate made a grand total of just 29 appearances for the club over the last two seasons. Despite being held in high regard, he has failed to transform himself into a regular. (h/t Transfermarkt)
Tuanzebe’s ability however is unquestioned. In fact, he earned widespread praise last October for his performance in United’s Champions League group stage win at Paris Saint-Germain. However, it failed to boost his chances.
According to the report, Tuanzebe feels he deserved more chances this season and appears concerned about the lack of recognition afforded to him. A number of Premier League and overseas clubs have already expressed interest in securing his services.
Bailly recently signed a three-year deal amidst an ultimatum seeking more game time. This could prove to be another obstacle in Tuanzebe’s path at United. Moreover, with the Red Devils also in the market for a new defender, the 23-year-old’s standing at the club could be taken down another notch.
Tuanzebe is out of contract at United next year. However, the club has the option of an additional year. Alongside fellow academy graduate Brandon Williams, he could thrive if he is allowed to go out on loan elsewhere.
According to ESPN, the player will have a conversation with manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer when the squad assembles for pre-season training next month. What the future holds for him remains to be seen.
More Manchester United News
- Real Madrid resigned to losing Raphael Varane amidst Manchester United interest
- Steve Bruce eyeing three Manchester United players this summer
- England coaches left impressed by Harry Maguire following his appointment as Manchester United skipper
Tuanzebe enjoyed a successful loan spell at Aston Villa between January 2018 and May 2019, helping them win promotion to the Premier League. The Villans were linked with a move for him earlier this year and it will be interesting to see if a return to Villa Park is in the offing. (h/t Birmingham Mail)
