Manchester United are reportedly prepared to announce a new contract for defender Jonny Evans, extending his stay at the club by a further year.
The 36-year-old is showing no signs of letting up despite being in the twilight of his career, playing a key role for the Red Devils during the 2023-24 term.
Due to a number of injuries to the likes of Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez, Evans perhaps earned more game time than he expected under Erik ten Hag last campaign.
The former Leicester City centre-back featured 23 times in the Premier League for Man United - starting 15 of those fixtures - managing to bag a game-winning assist in the 1-0 win at Burnley in September 2023.
Evans is still a key man for his national side, recently captaining an extremely-youthful Northern Ireland outfit as they were smashed 5-1 by Spain in a friendly on June 8.
© Reuters
Man United set to announce Evans extension?
According to Football Insider, Man United are on the verge of announcing their first move of the summer transfer window, one which involves a current player.
The report claims that the Red Devils are set to confirm that defender Evans has signed a new contract at the Theatre of Dreams, meaning that he will play a part in the 2024-25 term.
It is understood that the centre-back's agreement with Man United will run for a further 12 months, at the end of which an exit from the club is highly likely.
Ten Hag is said to be a "huge fan" of Evans and his performances in the midst of an injury crisis in defence last season, filling in at crucial moments in the term.
The four-time Premier League winner is believed to be a good influence in the changing room in the eyes of the Dutch head coach, increasing his desire to keep the 36-year-old around.
© Reuters
Man United chasing new partners for Evans
Even though Evans is set to stay put at Old Trafford this summer, Man United are still going full steam ahead in their pursuit of defensive reinforcements.
It has been widely reported that the Red Devils recently had a £35m bid for Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite turned down, with the Toffees hoping to pocket £80m for the youngster.
However, due to the financial issues being endured by Sean Dyche's men, United are looking to secure the 21-year-old for significantly less than the asking price.
Ten Hag's troops have also been linked with a £50.7m move for Lille defender Leny Yoro, who is said to be on the radar of Champions League winners Real Madrid.
Carter White
