Manchester United have struggled to move on players in the transfer window, with Anthony Martial being a prime example after failing to reach his potential.
The Reds are still dealing with the unwanted effects of Ed Woodward being chief executive. It was a time when underperforming players would be rewarded with hefty deals and the club would naively think that would result in higher transfer fees if sold on.
Martial, who rarely plays due to unavailability, is one of the club’s highest earners as well as being the most unproductive. United have been unable to sell him in previous transfer windows and his wages blocked signing a replacement.
The Frenchman’s contract will expire in June 2024 but finding a new club won’t be easy.
According to French outlet Jeunes Footeux, Lyon have snubbed the opportunity to sign Martial on a Bosman at the end of the season. It is believed that Lyon chairman John Textor, who also owns a stake in Crystal Palace, has rejected a move.
The report states: “At the end of his contract at Manchester United at the end of the season, Anthony Martial, who will not be extended, has been offered to several clubs across Europe including Olympique Lyonnais. However, Gones boss John Textor did not want to follow through.”
Returning to France wouldn’t be a bad idea for Martial, though it is telling that Lyon don’t want his services.
Lyon signed Nemanja Matic in January
Sticking to ageing stars, Lyon signed former United midfielder Nemanja Matic from Rennes in January.
The Serb, 35, signed a two-and-a-half-year contract which may be his last deal as a professional footballer.
This is proof they are willing to take a gamble on players who are past their best.
Not Martial though. They’re not making that mistake with the French forward.
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