Varun Pai
Transfer news: Manchester United ace Anthony Martial refused to last-minute move to Lyon
According to transfer news from L’Equipe (h/t Express), Manchester United star Anthony Martial refused to move on deadline-day after Olympique Lyon made an approach to sign the 25-year-old.
The Frenchman, who was initially touted for a move to Paris Saint Germain brokered by Jorge Mendes, was also approached by Lyon on the deadline day over a potential loan move. However, Martial, who was provided with making the final decision, chose against it and decided to stay ‘loyal’ to the Old Trafford outfit.
The 25-year-old was also linked with the likes of Everton and Inter Milan before the start of the Premier League season, however, those moves never materialized and the forward remained at the club.
Given that the Red Devils have added Jadon Sancho and Cristiano Ronaldo to a squad that already contains the likes of Marcus Rashford, Mason Greenwood, Edinson Cavani, and Jesse Lingard, there would be a lot of competition for minutes this season.
Although Martial can play on the left wing as well as through the centre, it remains to be seen how Solskjaer will use him. However, the player would need to maintain some consistency in his game – something he failed to achieve last season.
The Frenchman had a terrific 2019/20 campaign as he made 48 appearances in all competitions, including 32 Premier League appearances in which he produced 17 goals and 7 assists.
However, he failed to provide the same output last year as he only made 36 appearances across all competitions and managed a mere 7 goals and 9 assists in the process.
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Thus, even though Martial has chosen to stay at Old Trafford beyond this summer, he would need to fight for his place in the starting lineup, especially given the quality in the squad.
