Image Credits: Getty Images
Manchester United is pausing before making a decision on offering a new contract to Raphael Varane or any other player, according to Samuel Luckhurst.
The 30-year-old defender’s current contract is set to expire in June, with United having opted not to activate a one-year extension. Despite this, Varane has been a regular starter, featuring in nine of the last 11 matches.
As per Luckhurst, the hesitation from United comes as the club anticipates significant organisational and staffing shifts, with the Ineos Group on the verge of acquiring a 25% stake. This change is expected to bring in a new sporting director, amidst the swirling speculations concerning Erik ten Hag’s future as manager. However, the team’s performance has been on an upswing, winning their last four matches.
Despite the uncertainty, Varane had previously expressed his desire to fulfill his four-year commitment to United, staying put during the January transfer window. An oversight by United misstated the expiration date of Varane’s agreement when he transferred from Real Madrid in 2021.
Erik ten Hag recently mentioned the club’s indecision over not only Varane but also Jonny Evans for future plans. Evans, at 36, has been an active participant this season, making 20 appearances.
Additionally, the club faces decisions on other players. Goalkeeper Tom Heaton’s contract is expiring soon, and United might not retain Brandon Williams, currently on loan at Ipswich Town and inactive since December.
Scott McTominay’s situation is also being closely watched. The 27-year-old midfielder, pivotal to United’s recent success, has a contract expiring next year, with an option for an additional year, potentially extending his stay until 2026. Given McTominay’s importance and market value, it’s likely that United will exercise this option if he remains under the same contract terms.
