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Man Utd news: Ander Herrera to REJECT Barcelona and open contract talks
MANCHESTER UNITED midfielder Ander Herrera is NOT angling for a move back to Spain, despite interest from Barcelona.
Herrera has been linked with a January move or a free transfer next summer, after slipping down manager Jose Mourinho’s hierarchy.
The midfielder has played just twice for United all season, although he could start in the EFL Cup against Derby tonight.
A move back to Spain this summer was mooted, with the possibility of him returning to Athletic Bilbao.
That deal didn’t happen and triggered a one-year extension to his contract.
Now Barcelona are said to be angling for a switch and United could be open to selling Herrera at the right price.
But ESPN claim the player is not interested in a move to the Nou Camp.
According to the report, Herrera is ready to sit down to fresh contract talks with United and extend his stay at Old Trafford.
The midfielder’s contract expires at the end of the season, meaning he could negotiate a move to Barcelona or any other foreign suitor as early as January.
Yet ESPN reckon Manchester United remain his No 1 priority and the club are also willing to thrash out a fresh deal.
Herrera cost United £30m back in 2014 and has won the FA Cup, League Cup and Europa League with the Red Devils.
The Real Zaragoza youth product will play against Derby tonight, with manager Mourinho saying: “Ander is ready.”
As for Barcelona, it is understood they are open to signing Paul Pogba should United signal that the midfielder is available.
However, the Frenchman would almost certainly cost north of £100m to prise out of Old Trafford, with Herrera a much cheaper option should the Spanish giants come knocking.