Ander Herrera has signed a pre-contract with PSG ahead of his anticipated departure from Old Trafford this summer, according to reports in the Daily Express.
The Spaniard, 29, had been stalling on an extension to his current deal with the Red Devils that runs until the end of the season.
Since Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s arrival in Manchester, the combative midfielder has played a crucial role in United’s recent success, including climbing back into contention for Champions League qualification and progressing to the last eight of Europe’s premium domestic competition.
The departure of Herrera would signal a major blow to Solskjaer’s transfer plans at the end of the season, but would inevitably open up the United budget for a marquee signing in central midfield to accompany the glistening form of United’s talisman Paul Pogba.
The Express also report that Herrera has been demanding in excess of £200,000 a week to extend his stay in Manchester, and United’s hierarchy clearly deem there to be stronger value in the current market, despite the blow that the Spaniard’s departure would deal in receiving no financial recompense for this departure.
Given United’s success under the recently appointed Solskjaer, a squad overhaul is arguably not necessary, yet additions in the form of Crystal Palace fullback Aaron Wan-Bissaka to replace the ageing Ashley Young and more ambitious moves for the likes of Gareth Bale remain viable options for the Red Devils.
United next face Wolves, the side who dumped them out of the last-16 in the FA Cup, in mid-week in the Premier League, as official confirmation regarding Herrera’s agreement with PSG awaits from either side or the player himself.
Whilst United fans may deem this to be a blow given the Spaniard’s leadership qualities and his promising upturn in form, Manchester United will be willing to splash the cash in order to land a more than suitable replacement this summer.
