Bailly set to reject new Man Utd contract and seek move

James Holland
Eric Bailly Man Utd F365

Man Utd defender Eric Bailly is prepared to reject a new contract and seek a summer transfer, according to reports.

Last month, boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer confirmed that the club would begin contract talks with the centre-back.

His current deal expires in June 2022 and the Red Devils were hoping to tie him down to fresh terms.


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But according to ESPN, the Ivory Coast international is set to reject Man Utd’s proposal and will seek an Old Trafford exit.

He’s become increasingly frustrated this season at his lack of first team opportunities.

Bailly has been regularly overlooked by Solskjaer, who tends to play Victor Lindelof as Harry Maguire’s partner in defence.

He’s also worried about their summer transfer plans. A centre-back is at the top of Solskjaer’s wish list, with Sevilla’s Jules Kounde and Villareal’s Pau Torres the most viable candidates.

A major move would see Bailly fall further down the pecking order in Manchester. He wants to secure a transfer to a club where he will be one of the first choice defenders.

Sources have previously revealed the player’s anger at being omitted from the Europa League squads.

Back in March, one said: “Eric has had enough now. He simply doesn’t feel wanted or respected by the manager.

“Eric doesn’t believe he gets any answers or explanation about the way he is treated and feels he is the easy option to leave out.

“It’s a real shame because Eric always tells us he loves the club and feels the respect of the fans.”

The 27-year-old has played just 15 times in all competitions this season. He’s only made one Premier League appearance since January, which came in the 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace.

In comparison, both Lindelof and Maguire have already featured in over 30 games.

Clubs in Spain and Italy are said to be interested in signing Bailly.

United may be forced into a sale this summer if the player refuses to sign a new deal.

They won’t want to lose him for free next year once his contract expires.