Phil Jones heading for SHOCK transfer after Man Utd release

Robin Bairner

• 13 Jul 2023 08:19 BST
• 2 min read

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag no doubt had one of his easier decisions to make this summer when it came to releasing centre-back Phil Jones.

The 31-year-old barely managed to train under the former Ajax boss because of persistent injury problems, with the 27-cap England international having managed just six Premier League appearances in four seasons because of persistent physical complaints.

Jones, though, could make a shock return to action after the summer, despite previous suggestions that the former Blackburn defender could retire from the game.

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According to Greek outlet Gazzetta, Greek Super League side Aris have made the veteran their top summer transfer target.

Although an initial round of negotiations broke down over Aris failing to match the wage demands of the player, it appears that they are determined to sign the England international in order to boost their title hopes in the 2023/24 campaign.

The Thessaloniki side finished fifth in the Greek Super League in 2022/23, meaning that they will play in the qualifying rounds of the Europa Conference League.

However, there was a sizeable gulf of 16 points to the top four. It is hoped that Jones will help them bridge this sizeable gap.

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Jones to be star of Greek Super League

Certainly, the former Manchester United man would be one of the most high-profile names in the Greek Super League if he were to move there this summer.

Spain international Manu Garcia currently turns out for Aris, while James Rodriguez, a former Real Madrid playmaker, departed Olympiacos earlier this year by mutual consent while the same side’s prolific striker Cedric Bakambu departed for Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League just a couple of weeks ago.

For Jones, meanwhile, the opportunity to play any kind of first team football after his difficulties at Man Utd is welcome, but it would still represent a big shock if he were to wind up at Aris.