Manchester United are poised to trigger a one-year extension in Anthony Martial's contract, a strategic move designed to safeguard the club's investment in the out-of-favour forward.
The Red Devils hold an option to extend the Frenchman's deal until June 2025, and club officials are set to activate this clause. This decision is not a long-term endorsement of the player but a calculated piece of business to ensure they can command a transfer fee for him, rather than losing him for free next summer.
Martial's time at Old Trafford has been plagued by inconsistency and a frustrating series of injuries. Since his high-profile £58 million move from Monaco in 2015, he has struggled to hold down a regular starting spot under several managers.
A Season Marred by Fitness Issues
The 28-year-old's current campaign has been particularly disrupted. A hamstring injury has sidelined him since early December, limiting him to just 19 appearances across all competitions this season. His contribution of two goals has further highlighted his diminished role in Erik ten Hag's attacking plans.
With first-team opportunities increasingly scarce and the emergence of other attacking options, a January departure is now seen as the most likely outcome for all parties involved.
Strategic Move for January Exit
By extending his contract, United effectively prevent Martial from entering the final six months of his deal in January, a period when he would be free to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with overseas clubs. This extension protects the club's ability to secure a fee for the player during the upcoming winter transfer window.
This scenario mirrors the club's previous handling of David de Gea's contract, where extensions were triggered to maintain asset value. United's hierarchy, including incoming minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, is keen to implement a more shrewd and sustainable approach to player trading.
As the January window approaches, Anthony Martial's future appears to lie away from Manchester, closing a turbulent nine-year chapter for the once-prolific French forward.
