United Plan Talks With Out Of Contract Players

Talks are planned later next week with a number of Manchester United players who are out of contract at the end of the season.

It is the first real indication the Old Trafford hierarchy are now focused on what the squad make-up will look like next term, regardless of whether caretaker boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer remains in charge beyond the summer.

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It’s understood the futures of Spanish midfielders Juan Mata and Ander Herrera are high on the agenda, with both men now free to talk to clubs on the continent during this month.

Also up for discussion is defender Phil Jones and young midfielder Andreas Pereira, with United insiders feeling much more positive that they might be able to persuade a number of their fringe performers to sign new extensions.

Herrera is wanted back at his former club Athletic Bilbao, although the 29-year-old is said to be having seconds thoughts about leaving Manchester following the positive vibe Solskjaer has restored to the camp.

United currently have the highest wage bill in the Premier League and know they will have to create wiggle room to bring in new blood, but it won’t be at the expense of anyone they still consider a useful servant.