Phil Jones’ future at Manchester United latest as defender linked with Portuguese club

The future of Manchester United defender Phil Jones is up in the air with reports linking him with a move away from Old Trafford in the January transfer window.

Jones could make his first start in almost two years for United when they face Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League on Monday.

The 29-year-old hasn’t featured for United’s first team since their 6-0 away win over Tranmere Rovers in January 2020 in the FA Cup - a game that also saw him score his last goal for the club.

His performances in training since the appointment of Ralf Rangnick as interim manager have been impressive according to reports, with the defender looking to work his way back into a place in that starting XI under the German.

The defender has been hampered with injuries since joining United in recent years, with former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer explaining the problems the former England international has experienced in the last couple of years alone.

Speaking to the club’s website in August, Solskjaer said: “Phil has had a horrible 18-19 months and probably a year before that as well with injuries.

“Phil is a no fuss, get-on-with-it type of guy. I know more than anyone how it feels to be injured at that stage. He’s still not 30 years of age. Since I came here, he’s battled with this knee injury, he’s put his body on the line, every single training session, every single game.”

However, despite this, there are rumours that the centre-back could be on his way out of Old Trafford, with several clubs interested in his signature according to reports.

Benfica chance

According to the Daily Mail, Jones has already made his mind up on his future and wants to leave the Red Devils at the earliest opportunity in order to play regular football.

The site claims that Portuguese side Benfica are interested in signing the centre-back on loan this month.

Jones’ contract at United doesn’t expire until 2023, so a temporary departure could be the preferred option due to his lack of game-time and injury history.