Joe Hugill staying at Manchester United ahead of new deal

Joe Hugill is reportedly set to sign a new contract at Manchester United.

The 19-year-old featured for Manchester United during pre-season and managed to score a goal against Leeds in the initial friendly match.

According to The Athletic, Erik ten Hag has decided that Hugill’s development is better suited to Old Trafford rather than going out on a season-long loan.

It is believed that Hugill has interest from a number of League One clubs, but a decision has been made to keep him at the club.

On top of that, the young striker is close to agreeing a new deal that will run until 2026, with the option of an additional year.

The main reason for Hugill staying at United probably comes down to the lack of strikers available in the squad. Ten Hag only has Rasmus Hojlund and Anthony Martial as recognised centre-forwards, and I don’t think anyone wants to see Marcus Rashford played anywhere but the left flank.

It goes without saying that Martial’s injury record makes him unreliable as Ten Hag learned last season.