Two Manchester United defenders tell teammates they want out this summer amid Pau Torres interest
Two Manchester United defenders tell teammates they want out this summer amid Pau Torres interest
Both Eric Bailly and Phil Jones have told their teammates of their intentions to leave the club this summer, according to the Manchester Evening News.
The pair have made a combined 12 appearances for Manchester United this season, and have grown frustrated by their lack of first team opportunities. Jones has played twice in the Premier League, most recently in their 4-0 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield.
Eric Bailly, meanwhile, has publicly pleaded to start over Harry Maguire in the heart of the Red Devils defence, but has managed to start in the Premier League on just three occasions.
IRKENHEAD, ENGLAND – JANUARY 26: Phil Jones of Manchester United covered in mud during the FA Cup Fourth Round match between Tranmere Rovers and Manchester United at Prenton Park on January 26, 2020 in Birkenhead, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
And, as a result, both players are seeking a way out of the club this summer. with the pair having ‘outlined their intention to leave Manchester United to teammates amid the club’s plans to sign a new centre-back.’
They will join what is threatening to be a major clearout, with Jesse Lingard, Juan Mata, Edinson Cavani and Nemanja Matic all leaving, while the futures of Marcus Rashford, Anthony Martial remain up in the air.
Pau Torres remains a target
Meanwhile, on the subject of additions, Pau Torres remains seemingly front and centre for the Red Devils, with the left-footed centre-back having impressed in Villareal’s run to the Champions League semi-finals this season.
Antonio Rudiger is another option, but is expected to join Real Madrid when his contract ends this summer, meaning that he will be off the table.
But, with question marks over the long-term future of Harry Maguire, it seems certain that new incoming boss Erik ten Hag will target a new defender as one of his first orders of business.
