Man Utd considering sending Eric Bailly out on loan next season with Valencia showing transfer interest in defender
MANCHESTER UNITED are considering allowing Eric Bailly to leave on loan next season – with Valencia showing interest.
The Ivory Coast defender has been plagued with injuries throughout his Old Trafford career, including long-term knee problems.
The 26-year-old is a popular member of the Red Devils squad, and boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is a huge fan of his talents.
But Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof are his preferred partnership, and there’s interest in bringing in another centre-back.
It is understood United want him to get some regular action, and that could mean him leaving on loan for first-team opportunities.
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Spanish side Valencia have already made it clear they want Bailly for the entirety, if not part, or next season.
There has also been interest from clubs in Portugal, along with rumours of talks with Serie A sides over in Italy.
The centre-back has struggled to stay fit since his £30m move from Villarreal back in 2016, and failed to hold down a regular spot.
United triggered their two-year contract extension option back in January to stop him walking away on a free transfer this summer.
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It is understood the Red Devils do not want to sell Bailly, but would demand at least their money back if an offer came in.
However, they are open to the idea of a loan and anyone taking him would have to pay a significant amount to his £150,000-a-week wages.
He has made 53 appearances for the club in the Premier League in the last four season and scored one goal.