Phil Jones has rejected the chance to join Bordeaux on loan, although the French club remain hopeful of convincing the Manchester United star to change his mind.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Bordeaux have not given up hope of signing Manchester United star Phil Jones before today’s transfer deadline despite the defender rejecting the French side’s offer.
Phil Jones has had a difficult few years with Manchester United as he battled niggling injuries and faced a loss in form. Following a lengthy absence due to recurring fitness problems, the defender made a Premier League appearance in their loss to Wolves.
Despite the slight upturn in fortunes, Jones does not have a future at Manchester United, who remain open to the idea of letting him leave. A loan move to another club seemed a likely outcome, and Bordeaux have been the only club so far to come up with a reasonable offer.
Bordeaux offered to take Jones on loan for the rest of the season and Manchester United seemingly approved their proposal for the defender. However, it seems like the Englishman has rejected the idea of moving to the Ligue 1 side.
Bordeaux will try to do a final attempt today to change Phil Jones’ mind, after English defender turned down the proposal to join Bordeaux on loan from Man United. ?? #MUFC
Seems still difficult for Bordeaux – the other option is Andreas Maxsø from Brøndby. #DeadlineDay
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 31, 2022
The reason behind the decision could be the desire to stay put in England and wait until the last moment to see whether an offer arrives from a domestic side. There was interest from Burnley at one stage, but the Clarets might have baulked at the asking price set for the Manchester United defender.
There were also whispers about interest from Benfica, although the same reason for staying back in England might have come into the picture. As things stand, Bordeaux remain the only club interested in Jones, with the offer still reportedly on the table despite the Manchester United star rejecting the proposal.
The Ligue 1 side hope to hold further talks with Jones as they aim to convince the defender to reconsider his decision. They are keen to bolster their squad with an experienced centre-back in this window. The move could also provide Jones with valuable playing time, which he may not get this season unless there are massive injury troubles within the Manchester United squad.
As things stand, the deal is off, although a late twist could be expected in the saga.
