Man Utd star makes major transfer decision that Ten Hag will HATE

Cameron Smith

• 14 Jan 2024 14:04 CST
• 3 min read

Manchester United forward Anthony Martial is wanted by clubs in the Saudi Pro League, but the Frenchman would prefer to remain at Old Trafford until the summer before joining a European club on a free transfer.

Martial, 28, has not played in the Premier League since 9 December and he will not be renewing his Man Utd contract, meaning he will become a free agent in July.

However, the Red Devils want to sell him during the January window in order to free up his wages and earn a small transfer fee for a player that cost them €60 million back in 2015.

But, Martial would prefer to sit on the sidelines for six months before sealing a free transfer move in the summer.

That is according to CaughtOffside, who have reported that multiple Saudi Pro League clubs are weighing up a move for the Man Utd attacker. Despite this, Martial wants to remain in Europe and is therefore willing to snub January interest in order to wait until July.

Reports suggest that Inter Milan and Fenerbahce could enter the race for Martial if he becomes available on a free transfer, while David Moyes’ West Ham United may offer the Frenchman a Premier League stay as they look to sign a long-term heir to Michail Antonio.

What has Fabrizio Romano said about Anthony Martial’s Man Utd exit

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has also weighed in on Martial’s situation at Old Trafford. He recently admitted: “Man United are looking at opportunities but nothing is imminent also in this case.

“Man United had multiple conversations with the agents of strikers around Europe, but still nothing concrete.

“Also because Anthony Martial is still not convinced by the options he received so far and so he could end up staying at Old Trafford until June.”

Erik ten Hag's hopes of landing a new striker in January could take a huge hit if Martial does end up staying. The Red Devils aren't flush with cash as things stand and may have to take to the loan market in order to land a number nine if Martial snubs transfer interest.

The Frenchman has made 317 appearances for Man Utd since joining from Monaco, scoring 90 goals.