Anthony Martial set for surprise move after Manchester United exit - Reports
Former Manchester United striker Anthony Martial is reportedly set for a surprise move to Brazilian side Flamengo on a free transfer. The Frenchman has spent more than two months as a free agent since his contract expired at Old Trafford in June.
As reported by Italian journalist Luca Bendoni on X (formerly Twitter), the 28-year-old is set to join Flamengo who are fourth in the league table at the moment. The former AS Monaco star has been linked with the likes of Galatasaray and AEK Athens of late but it is the Scarlet-Black who look likely to secure Martial's signature.
Expectations were massive from Martial when the Red Devils secured his signature from AS Monaco in the summer of 2015. They reportedly spent an initial £36 million for his services with the potential fee ranging upto a reported £58 million.
The attacker was so highly rated that Manchester United even had a Ballon d'Or clause inserted in Martial's deal. However, he could never really live up to the hype at Old Trafford despite showing signs of brilliance.
Martial never managed to showcase any kind of consistency during his nine-year stint at Old Trafford. Also, he has suffered from major and minor injuries throughout his career which saw him miss 94 games over the last nine seasons.
The Frenchman made 317 appearances for the Red Devils, contributing with 90 goals and 47 assists in the process. He won four trophies during his stint at the club and was named Manchester United Players' Player of the Year in 2018-19.
Reports emerge on Erik ten Hag's future at Manchester United
Manchester United are reportedly not considering sacking Erik ten Hag despite a dismal start to the new season. As reported by Football Insider, the Red Devils are ready to allow the Dutchman time to turn around the fortunes of his side.
Ten Hag's side have endured a disastrous start to the season, winning one and losing two of their opening three league games. They also lost to rivals Manchester City in the FA Community Shield and the manager is under a lot of pressure.
However, the 20-time English champions are understood to be happy to offer Ten Hag time to steady the ship. They are reportedly waiting to see how the new signings fare under the Dutchman this campaign.
Manchester United appointed Ten Hag in the summer of 2022 and the manager enjoyed a solid first season at Old Trafford. They finished third in the 2022-23 season but could only salvage an eighth-placed finish last season.