Manchester United confirms deal for a defender that was wanted by Liverpool
Jonny Evans has signed a new one-year contract with Manchester United, keeping him at the club until 2023, as the Red Devils make a decision on their centre-back options
Ten Hag appears in high spirits during Man Utd’s pre-season training
Erik ten Hag was keen to get a new deal for his player sorted
Jonny Evans has penned a fresh one-year deal to extend his stay at Manchester United ahead of the new Premier League season.
The Northern Irish defender, who’s now 36, made a nostalgic return to the club where he started his career last year, racking up 30 appearances. His efforts were pivotal in securing the FA Cup, thus completing his collection of domestic honors with the Red Devils.
Evans expressed his joy, saying: “I am delighted to have extended my contract at Manchester United for another season. To play for this great club and feel the support from our incredible fans is always a privilege.
“Returning to the club last season was an honor; representing the team on the pitch alongside fantastic teammates under an excellent manager.”
The triumph in the FA Cup was particularly sweet for Evans, who remarked, “Winning the FA Cup together was an unforgettable experience; I know we can challenge for more trophies in the season ahead.”
Evans’ journey with United began back in 2007, a period during which he celebrated three Premier League titles, two League Cups, and a Club World Cup victory before his transfer to West Brom in 2015.
After lifting the FA Cup with Leicester City in 2021, Evans played a key role in United’s dramatic final win over Manchester City this past May.
United is in the market for more new centre backs this summer. Everton have already turned down two offers for Jarrad Branthwaite, while a deal is close for Matthijs de Ligt. There has also been a bid for Lille defender and Liverpool target Leny Yoro.
Liverpool.com says: Evans was a steady performer for most of last season and will offer plenty of experience in the United dressing room. It is unclear if his new deal will impact United’s transfer dealings with offers having been made for three more players. Yoro is a target but he seemingly prefers a move to Real Madrid and that may explain why Liverpool hasn’t made an offer.
Jadon Sancho and Erik ten Hag Resolve Differences Before Pre-Season
Jadon Sancho and Erik ten Hag have settled their differences before Manchester United’s pre-season training begins. Following a successful loan spell at Borussia Dortmund, Sancho is back in first-team training. With Greenwood’s departure and new signings, there is a chance for Sancho to have a long-term future at Old Trafford.
Last season, Sancho was out of favor and only played in the first three Premier League games before a dispute with ten Hag led to his demotion to youth team training. He was loaned to Borussia Dortmund in January, where he impressed by helping the team reach the Champions League final. Now, Sancho is back training with Manchester United’s first team, indicating the club’s intent to utilize his skills.
Sancho’s unexpected return to United’s training sessions at Carrington was surprising, especially since the club had been in talks with Dortmund earlier. His impressive performance during his loan, scoring three goals and providing three assists, prompted calls for his permanent return to Dortmund, but no deal was made.
Manchester United’s first-team resumed training without Sancho earlier this week, but he has since rejoined and is likely to feature in pre-season matches. According to Fabrizio Romano, Sancho and ten Hag had a positive meeting and agreed to move past their disagreement, allowing Sancho to be available for pre-season.
With Greenwood’s imminent move to Marseille, Sancho could be a long-term option for United’s right flank, alongside Antony and Amad Diallo. On the left, Rashford will compete with Garnacho, and with Joshua Zirkzee expected to join from Bologna, United could have a dynamic young attacking lineup next season.
Sancho has played 82 games for United, scoring 12 goals and assisting six. Meanwhile, United’s transfer targets for central defense include Jarrad Branthwaite, Matthijs de Ligt, and Leny Yoro, aiming to improve their defensive options after years of missteps in
signing players.
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