Manchester United have opened talks over a new contract for right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka, according to a report.
For the past two years, the former Crystal Palace man has engaged in a fierce battle with Diogo Dalot for the right-back spot - a contest which the Portuguese often won in 2022 under Ralf Rangnick.
A back injury also prevented Wan-Bissaka from making an early impression under Erik ten Hag, and there was even talk of a move away from Old Trafford last year, but he has since played his way into the manager's good books.
While not renowned for his attacking qualities - he failed to score or assist once in the 2022-23 Premier League season - Wan-Bissaka's defensive game continues to earn plaudits, and he has cemented his place as Ten Hag's first-choice right-back.
The 25-year-old has started all four of the Red Devils' Premier League games so far this season, completing the full 90 in three of them and setting up Raphael Varane's winner against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
© Reuters
However, Wan-Bissaka has now entered the final 12 months of his contract at Old Trafford, although his deal does include an extension option until the end of the 2024-25 season.
Rather than trigger that clause and keep Wan-Bissaka on his £100,000-a-week wages, the Daily Mail reports that negotiations have started with the defender's camp over a new-and-improved contract.
The former England Under-21 international has not renewed his terms since arriving at Old Trafford in 2019, but the Red Devils are now keen to reward his recent displays with a pay rise.
Talks have intensified following the closure of the transfer window, as Man United seek to tie Wan-Bissaka down for the long-term, having shelled out £50m to sign him from Palace four years ago.
Wan-Bissaka had previously enjoyed a decade-long stint at Selhurst Park between 2009 and 2019, making 46 senior appearances for the Eagles before his marquee move to Manchester.
© Reuters
Since leaving London, Wan-Bissaka has contributed two goals and 12 assists from 164 matches in a Red Devils jersey, and he played the full 90 in their FA Cup final loss to Manchester City.
The 25-year-old lost out to Dalot for a starting berth in their EFL Cup success over Newcastle United in February, but he came on for the Portuguese during the half-time interval.
Dalot is one of six players whom Man United have already agreed new contracts with this year, alongside Kobbie Mainoo, Marcus Rashford, Tom Heaton, Alejandro Garnacho and Luke Shaw.
Meanwhile, Anthony Martial, Victor Lindelof and Hannibal Mejbri could also leave as free agents in 2024, but Man United possess extension options for all three players.
The Red Devils will aim to make it three wins from three home games in the 2023-24 Premier League season when they host Brighton & Hove Albion on September 16 following the international break.
Ben Knapton
