Phil Jones is a target for Leeds United and Fulham as Erik ten Hag is reportedly willing to axe the injury-prone Manchester United defender.
According to Fichajes, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is willing to axe Phil Jones from his squad this summer, while the defender continues to attract interest. Fulham and Leeds United are keen on signing the Englishman, as they see him as a high-quality squad option.
Phil Jones’ once-promising career has been hampered by injuries that have kept him on the fringes of this Manchester United team for years. As a result, the centre-back managed only six Premier League appearances in his last three seasons, while missing the entirety of the 2020/21 season.
There were plenty of criticism aimed at then-manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for keeping the defender in the team and handing him a new contract. The Norwegian had cited injury problems for his lack of game-time. In the last campaign, he only started two games and came on twice as a substitute.
In the summer, things could change for Jones as Manchester United could entertain offers for the 30-year-old, who is not part of the plans under new manager Erik ten Hag, who is keen on bringing in a new defender.
Several Premier League sides are keen on signing Jones this summer as they see him as a quality depth option, Fulham and Leeds United are reportedly keen to recruit the experienced centre-back to their squad next season.
Marco Silva’s newly-promoted side are keen on adding bargain players to their side as they embark on a season where their only objective is to survive in the top flight. A player of Jones’ experience could prove crucial to that cause. The former Blackburn defender may not be considered a starting option, although he would add plenty of know-how and depth to the side.
Leeds United could challenge Fulham as Jesse Marsch looks to add players who could help shore up the defence. The Whites were terrible defensively in the season gone by, and adding a player of Jones’ qualities might help them add an extra layer of protection, provided he stays fit.
Manchester United reportedly wants at least €4 million from suitors. However, the defender’s terrible injury record and a lack of game time in the last three seasons will come up in negotiations, as clubs such as Fulham and Leeds United will look to get him for lesser or possibly even on a free transfer.
