Reports: Manchester United star on Atletico Madrid radar

What’s the story?

Manchester United have been the ones who have been constantly linked with moves for Atletico Madrid stars. But now, the tables have turned and the Spanish side are looking to sign a United player.

According to reports in AS, Atletico Madrid are keen on signing Ander Herrera next summer. The Spanish side are looking to sign him on a free transfer and have reportedly begun talks with the midfielder.

In case you didn’t know...

Herrera's contract at Manchester United runs out at the end of the season. The midfielder is yet to agree on a new contract but the club have the option of extending his stay by a year.

Jose Mourinho has not been playing Herrera regularly as he prefers Matic and Pogba mainly in the midfield role. He's keen on knowing his role at the club before putting pen to a new contract.

The heart of the matter

Herrera can sign a pre-contract with Atletico Madrid or any other club in Europe from January 1st. The midfielder is eligible to do so because he will be in the final 6 months of the contract despite having the option of extending it by a year.

Manchester United are keen on getting him to sign a new contract but the midfielder is reluctant to do so. He wants to play more regularly and that is currently not on offer at Old Trafford.

A move back to Spain is also a very inviting one for Herrera. Apart from Atletico Madrid, Barcelona are also interested in signing him. The Catalan side are managed by Ernesto Valverde – a manager Herrera played regularly under at Athletic Bilbao.

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Author’s Take

Herrera loves Manchester United but it's difficult to see him stay at the club if he's not given enough time on the pitch. Barcelona looks the likely destination right now but that too depends on how much match time he's offered by Valverde.