Transfer Centre

Manchester United 'reject Arsenal move for Eric Bailly'

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 24 January 2019

Man Utd 'reject Arsenal move for Bailly'

Manchester United reportedly turn down an enquiry from top-four rivals Arsenal as to the availability of out-of-favour centre-back Eric Bailly.

Manchester United have reportedly turned down an enquiry from Arsenal into the availability of defender Eric Bailly.

Bailly has struggled for game time under both Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at United this season, making just six Premier League starts from a possible 23 so far.

Arsenal are looking to bolster their backline this month, having seen their defence decimated by injuries at times this term, and had earmarked Bailly as a potential target.

The Gunners made an enquiry as to the possibility of signing the Ivorian on loan until the end of the season with a view to making the move permanent, but the Daily Mail reports that United have rejected the approach.

The Red Devils are unwilling to lose Bailly midway through the season and are particularly reluctant to do business with their direct top-four rivals.

Bailly's current deal at Old Trafford expires in 2020, although United have the option to extend that by a further two years and the player himself is understood to be eager to stay.

The 24-year-old has made only one start so far under Solskjaer, though, and he was sent off in that match.