Anthony Martial, Victor Lindelof and five others to leave Manchester United in January

In 2024, Manchester United could potentially see up to eight players leave for free as their contracts expire.

Since Erik ten Hag became the manager, the club has been proactive in securing new deals for key players like Marcus Rashford, Luke Shaw, and Diogo Dalot this year. However, several players are now in the last year of their contracts.

This situation doesn’t necessarily disadvantage United, as Ten Hag might be willing to let go of some players as part of his ongoing rebuild, and there are also one-year extension options that the club can activate when needed.

But United may well want to extend others to longer deals as soon as possible. According to MEN Sport here are the eight players they will have to make a decision on either way in the coming months.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka

Initially appearing to be the most likely casualty under Ten Hag’s leadership, Wan-Bissaka has managed to make a comeback at Old Trafford. Although it took three years, his remarkable improvement in the past year has propelled him into the role of the primary right-back. While he possesses the option for another 12 months in his current contract, his performances might have warranted consideration for a new contract.

Anthony Martial

During the summer, the French striker found himself listed for transfer, but a recurring series of injuries combined with a disappointing season deterred potential suitors. This circumstance turned out to be fortunate for United, as injuries in other areas left them with a shortage of attacking options, leading to a significant reliance on Anthony Martial this season.

With his contract nearing its end, United now has an opportunity to part ways with a player who has struggled to fulfill his potential. However, they might be inclined to extend his contract by one more year to maintain depth in their striker positions.

Victor Lindelof

It would come as a shock if the club chose not to activate the option in Victor Lindelof’s contract. This center-back has consistently demonstrated his reliability as a substitute whenever Raphael Varane or Lisandro Martinez faced injuries.

While there were earlier concerns voiced by the Swede regarding his playing time during the summer, he has participated in nearly every match this season, indicating his satisfaction at Old Trafford.

Jonny Evans

Jonny Evans, one of the rare players without a contractual clause, rejoined United on a one-year agreement this summer to provide additional defensive support. Due to United’s unusual injury situation, he found himself starting a match sooner than anticipated.

The Northern Ireland captain delivered an outstanding performance in the victory against Burnley, contributing to the winning goal and having one of his own disallowed. If he maintains this high level of performance, it wouldn’t be unexpected to see him continue with the team for another year.

Hannibal Mejbri

Just a week ago, considering Hannibal Mejbri’s expiring contract, one might have anticipated his departure. Despite being highly regarded by Ten Hag, he hadn’t been granted substantial playing time, making it uncertain when he’d get his chance.

However, due to limited alternatives, the Tunisian has now started the previous two matches and has shown impressive commitment, injecting much-needed energy and urgency into the midfield. His contract includes an option, suggesting that his tenure at the club might continue beyond this point.

Tom Heaton

Tom Heaton had a strong desire to depart during the summer, aiming for more playing time in the later stages of his career. He ultimately remained with the team after receiving promises about his role.

Nonetheless, the arrival of Altay Bayindir has relegated him to a lower position in the hierarchy. United probably wishes to retain him as an experienced and homegrown third-choice option, but Heaton may be inclined to pursue a fresh challenge.

Sofyan Amrabat

The case of the deadline day addition is different from the previous six players. Sofyan Amrabat was brought in on an initial season-long loan from Fiorentina for a fee of £10 million.

While United does have the opportunity to make his transfer permanent for an additional £20 million, if his performance falls short or the club’s intentions change, Amrabat may depart from Old Trafford without a return in sight.

Sergio Reguilon

Sergio Reguilon, the Spanish left-back, also came to United on loan on the final day of the transfer window. However, there is no purchase option included in the agreement. United faced an urgent need for a left-back when Shaw joined Tyrell Malacia on the injured list, leading them to choose Reguilon from Spurs.

Reguilon has shown promise in his initial outings, which could lead United to consider signing him. Nevertheless, he will have to return to North London once his loan period concludes initially.

EFL Cup rou

Following the lose to Newcastle UTD, Manchester City are no longer in the EFL cup. The City rivals were hammered 1:0 by Newcastle on Wednesday night. Though it was expected after winning 8:0 over the weekend. It is believed that this will aid more focus on other competitions for Manchester City.

The draw for the fourth round of the Carabao Cup was conducted on Wednesday night.

This followed the conclusion of the third round fixtures.

Holders Manchester United will host Newcastle in what is a repeat of last season’s final.

In other games, Chelsea welcome Blackburn Rovers, Arsenal travel to West Ham and Liverpool take on Bournemouth.

FULL FIXTURES

Mansfield Town v Port Vale

Ipswich Town v Fulham

Manchester United v Newcastle United

Bournemouth v Liverpool

Chelsea v Blackburn Rovers

West Ham United v Arsenal

Everton v Burnley

Exeter City v Middlesbrough