Anthony Martial to STAY at Man Utd?! Erik ten Hag confirms flop forward among four players who could be handed contract extension at Old Trafford

The Dutch manager revealed that United are discussing internally the possibilities of triggering extensions for four players, namely Victor Lindelof, Hannibal Mejbri, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and under-fire forward Martial. All four players are in the final year of their existing contracts, but the club have the option of activating a one-year extension in each. United are also considering making Sergio Reguilon's loan from Tottenham a permanent transfer next summer.

Speaking to reporters, Ten Hag said: "Absolutely, those (contracts) are in our mindset, we are discussing things and when we have news we will bring it. Also, we have to make a final decision (on Reguilon) but also there is Spurs who are involved in that (conversation)as well."

When asked if the Red Devils are planning to make new signings in January, the former Ajax coach said: "I don’t think so. A lot will happen in the window but we have to be prepared if there are opportunities, if there are certain circumstances or surprises, we have to be ready to act."

Martial received a lot of criticism for his poor showing against Newcastle United last weekend. Ten Hag, too, did not spare the player during the match as he was left fuming on the sidelines and was even seen shouting at the striker. However, he later came to Martial's defence as he felt that the player should not be singled out for the team's failure. If Man Utd do trigger the contract extensions, it could also be with a view to securing a transfer fee for each player in the summer, rather than seeing them walk away for free.

Manchester United came back strongly in midweek as they beat Chelsea 2-1 after the dire loss at St. James' Park. They will now aim to close the gap to fourth-placed Manchester City as they face Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday.