Manchester United have been in contract talks with their left wing specialist, Ashley Young, according to ESPN.
Young has become a favourite of Louis Van Gaal’s and has out-played the huge offseason signing, Angel Di Maria.
Di Maria hasn’t played for United in a few weeks, partly due to Young’s effectiveness and versatility.
Van Gaal has lined Young up and down the left side of his lineup. He has played left-back, left-wing and wing-back for United and has proven that he can handle the role of streaking along the left line.
The 29-year-old’s contact is due to expire in 2016 and Van Gaal wants to ensure that he keeps Young on lockdown. While no official word has come out about the contract negotiations, ESPN reports that the two sides are close to an agreement.
The Red Devils have been proactive in extending contacts that expire in 2016. Centre-back, Chris Smalling, who’s contact was also set to expire in 2016, was awarded an extension just a few weeks ago.
Van Gaal sees value in rewarding players he is keen on before their contract becomes an issue. The talks with Young are a clear indication that Van Gaal sees him as an asset worth keeping.
