The three clubs circling United’s imminent £250k-a-week summer departure

Manchester United's French striker #09 Anthony Martial thanks the supporters at the end of the English Premier League football match between Manchester United and Newcastle United at Old Trafford in Manchester, north west England, on May 15, 2024. Manchester United wins 3 - 2 against Newcastle United. (Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. /

Manchester United fans bid farewell to soon-to-be-free agents Raphael Varane and Anthony Martial at the end of last season.

It’s currently unknown where four-time Champions League winner Varane will take his services next, but for his compatriot, a return to his native France could be on the cards.

As per Sky Sports News, Ligue 1 sides Lyon and Marseille have registered their interest in taking Martial aboard for the 2024/2025 campaign, along with Besiktas.

Since 2022, the No.9 has been pocketing £250,000 per week at Old Trafford, so it remains to be seen if any potential suitor would be able – or willing – to match such a salary.

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His lack of availability will undoubtedly be a mitigating factor in clubs’ decisions to pursue him; Martial’s last appearance for United came on December 9 in a 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth throughout a term in which he was limited to just 19 appearances in all competitions (seven as a starter).

In Erik ten Hag’s maiden season in the dugout, the Frenchman made 29 outings in total, with 17 coming from the offset.