OK, so you want another dumb transfer rumor to tide you over to the weekend? Here’s one! According to French outlet RMC Sport, Anthony Martial is stalling on extending his contract with Manchester United, and Tottenham Hotspur (along with several other clubs) are monitoring the situation closely.
Martial was high on Tottenham’s wish list a couple of years ago before he signed with United, and he’s been a regular contributor for Jose Mourinho’s side this season, scoring 11 goals and tallying 9 assists in all competitions. He’s only 22, is supremely talented, and can play both at the left wing and striker position. His contract expires at the end of the 2018-19 season, which means he either needs to sign an extension or United need to sell him this summer.
RMC suggests the arrival of Alexis Sanchez has effectively blocked Martial from significant minutes, which seems like a reasonable thing for him to be annoyed about. From what I can tell, Martial is also only on about £65k/week wages. Take a ticked-off player, add affordable wages, a manager in Pochettino who attracts young stars, and throw in a dash of Daniel Levy and you’ve got a Tottenham transfer rumor!
Now, the dash of cold water: I don’t think this is actually something that will happen. Martial is a huge talent, and even if Mourinho’s willing to let him go I seriously doubt that he would sanction a sale to strengthen a league rival. RMC also lists Inter Milan as interested in Martial, and also Real Madrid, assuming that they would send Gareth Bale the other way.
Or I have a better idea. Mourinho has already stated that he doesn’t intend to purchase an offensive player in this summer’s window, and Spurs apparently have a slightly-gimpy Danny Rose and Toby Alderweireld sitting around. Danny and Toby for Martial, Luke Shaw, and cash?
...Please don’t throw things at me, that’s rude.