Contract negotiations between Manchester United and defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka have hit a stumbling block, per the Daily Mail.
There was initial optimism around the negotiations during the summer, and it appeared that a new deal was on the horizon.
However, United are reportedly leaning towards invoking a 12-month extension clause to ensure Wan-Bissaka remains with the club until June 2025. They will then reassess the situation in the New Year.
United’s priority is to nurse him back to full fitness, especially considering their challenging start to the season and defensive injury crisis.
The club has also decided to trigger the release clause in Victor Lindelof’s contract as it approaches its end.
If United don’t extend the contracts of the two players before January 1, it would give them the freedom to negotiate with other clubs and potentially leave United as free agents next summer.
Anthony Martial also has a year left on his current deal, but the club has not decided to trigger the extension clause.
In another development, there is uncertainty regarding Cameroon international Andre Onana’s participation in the Africa Cup of Nations in January and February.
Onana is reportedly open to representing Ivory Coast during the tournament, but the move could come at a cost for the goalkeeper. It might see him miss up to seven matches for United, and he is keeping his options open.
His recent performances against FC Copenhagen and in the Manchester derby have earned him credit and favour at the club after a poor start.
Things are looking up for the former Inter Milan shot-stopper, and he is considering staying behind to continue his progress with United.
