Manchester United are bracing themselves for bids from Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur for Anthony Martial, according to Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge, who says the Red Devils could be persuaded by the inclusion of a defender as part of a swap deal.
Martial’s agent has confirmed this summer that his client hopes to leave United this summer due to lack of first team football.
But Jose Mourinho has often spoke during pre-season about having the Frenchman in his plans, saying he will start the season alongside Mata and Sanchez.
However, according to Bridge, United could be open to letting the talented 22-year-old leave if they receive Toby Alderweireld in return from Spurs.
“Anthony Martial’s future could be the big talking point of the transfer window,” Bridge told the Transfer Talk podcast.
“Chelsea have entered the fray and I have said plenty of times that Spurs have a longstanding interest in Martial and I still stand by that.
“There may even be a deadline day swap between him and Toby Alderweireld, who knows. There will still be plenty to go in the last few weeks.
“Chelsea, we know they are interested but they are yet to make a formal offer. Sky in Germany are saying Bayern Munich will only make a move if United lower their valuation of the player – you’d say unlikely.
“Anthony Martial’s agent has said Martial is not wanted as much at Manchester United but Jose Mourinho has said a lot of his World Cup players won’t be starting the season.
“He’s actually started for United against Club America and San Jose Earthquakes. Jose Mourinho has said he wants to start Martial against Leicester alongside Sanchez and Juan Mata.
“Is it Mourinho and Man Utd not appreciating him? We don’t know.
“It might have taken them by surprise that Martial has said he wants to move on. Not many players want to move on from Manchester United.”
Martial leaving United this summer is a real possibility, but something that would almost certainly be criticised by fans as the forward is a favourite amongst the Old Trafford faithful.