Man Utd set to extend contracts of five first-team stars - report

Manchester United are set to extend the contracts of five first-team stars before the transfer window reopens at the turn of the year, Manchester Evening News report.

The Red Devils currently have the likes of David de Gea, Diogo Dalot, Luke Shaw, Fred and Marcus Rashford, who have entered the final year of their respective deals.

United have the option of prolonging their contracts by another 12 months, and the hierarchy are now expected to trigger those clauses ahead of the winter transfer window.

The club believe the quintet have a genuine resale value and they want to avoid the prospect of any of them negotiating a pre-contract with an overseas club in January.

Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo’s deal also expires next summer, but there is an acceptance that he could head for the exit door at the end of the campaign.

Ronaldo will be 38 in February, and it is reported that any extension needs to be mutually agreed, though United have the option to keep him for another year.

United need to trigger extension clauses as soon as possible

Among the above-mentioned stars, only Dalot, De Gea and Rashford have been mainstays under manager Erik ten Hag this season. Luke Shaw and Fred have had limited game time.

Despite this, the club need to trigger extension clauses for each. Dalot and Rashford are likely to have long-term futures at United, and the hierarchy may open fresh contract talks separately.

For the rest, Ten Hag may want to give an entire season to assess whether a new deal is required. Otherwise, the Dutchman may decide to part ways with their services next summer.

Ronaldo is a special exception. The Portuguese is no longer a guaranteed starter. He could move on a free transfer next summer if his situation does not improve. United will want a replacement by then.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

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