Man Utd Dealt Further Blow in Developing Marouane Fellaini Contract Saga With Free Transfer Possible

Manchester United appear increasingly likely to lose key midfielder Marouane Fellaini on a free transfer at the end of the season, with the Belgian seemingly no closer to agreeing a new contract at Old Trafford after already turning down one firm offer from the club.

It was reported last week that Fellaini rejected terms for an extension in September. It was said then that the Belgian was keen for United to match the salary he could potentially earn elsewhere for what is probably going to be the last 'big contract', given his age.

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In a further blow, the latest gossip on the situation from the Daily Mirror has it that nothing has changed within the 29-year-old's camp in terms of their stance on turning down the first deal.

It is claimed that the rejected contract was worth £120k in weekly wages. But Fellaini is apparently keen for more, as well as seeking assurances that he will play more regularly if he opts to commit his future to the club at this stage of his career.

Fellaini remains an important player for United boss Jose Mourinho, as highlighted by his recent injury absence, but the Mirror notes that the club will not be pushed into selling the former Everton man in January and would let him become a free agent if he continues to refuse to sign.

As of 1st January, Fellaini will have less than six months remaining on his current contract, allowing him to formally negotiate with foreign clubs with a view to signing a pre-contract agreement that would seem him secure a free transfer in advance for 1st July.

Turkish giants Galatasaray and Besiktas are two of the clubs rumoured to be interested.

In other recent United contract news, 12-month clauses to extend the current contracts of Juan Mata, Ander Herrera, Daley Blind and Ashley Young to 2019 are expected to be exercised in the coming weeks. Rumour has it that Luke Shaw has seen his similar clause triggered already.