Important Man Utd star ‘extends’ contract at Old Trafford

Manchester United have opted to extend Victor Lindelof’s contract by 12 months, according to reports.

The defender’s current deal is set to expire next summer meaning he will be able to start negotiating with European clubs in the new year. However, should United decide to trigger an optional one-year extension, that would no longer be the case.

The Athletic report that United have chosen to utilise that option, with the Swede’s contract now set to expire in July 2025. “Lindelof is viewed as important to the Dutchman’s plans and system,” the outlet add.

The ex-Benfica man has missed the last six games due to a groin injury and underwent surgery earlier this month to address the issue. Lindelof, who has made 18 appearances this season, is not expected to be back until late January or early February.

The decision to extend Lindelof’s contract by 12 months is similar to the policy adopted by the club for Diogo Dalot, Fred, Luke Shaw and Marcus Rashford last season, with the three of the quartet agreeing longer-term deals the following summer.

Tom Heaton, Jonny Evans, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Hannibal and Anthony Martial also have a year to run on their deals, with Heaton and Evans the only players who don’t have the additional year option in their contracts. 

Martial is expected to leave United this summer, nine years after signing from Monaco. Hannibal’s future is less clear, but Aaron Wan-Bissaka is likely to remain at Old Trafford.