Jonny Evans set to sign one-year contract with Manchester United

Jonny Evans is set to stay longer at Manchester United as he could pen a new one-year deal with the club and add his experience to the backline.

According to Belfast Telegraph, Jonny Evans is set to sign a one-year deal with Manchester United, having impressed Erik ten Hag in pre-season. The veteran Northern Irish defender could add depth to the backline and bring about some of his rich experience for the upcoming season.

When Manchester United took Jonny Evans along for their pre-season tour of the US, there were a few surprised faces. The veteran defender became a free agent after Leicester City released him following the expiry of his contract.

Evans has played regularly for Leicester City since joining them from West Brom. Last season, he missed games from early October to early May with a calf problem. He returned to full fitness unscathed during Manchester United’s pre-season tour.

Evans has impressed Erik ten Hag during this short period, with the manager and the club deciding on a new short-term deal. The 35-year-old is all set to sign a one-year deal with the club and become part of the first-team squad for the upcoming season.

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His presence could somewhat offset some departures like that of Eric Bailly, who remains linked with a move to Saudi Arabia. Evans could bring rich experience to this Manchester United backline. He could cover some of the first choices in games of less importance, like the cup games next term.

The decision to sign the multi-time Premier League winner could also come in handy if Harry Maguire leaves with Everton and West Ham United keen on the 30-year-old. Evans could fill in during games, especially when Ten Hag looks to close out clashes when they are ahead.

There are more gains than losses in signing Evans on a short-term deal. He also knows the club inside-out, having come through their system. Evans made more than 200 appearances before and remains a multi-time Premier League winner and a European champion with the club.

Whether his signing ends Manchester United’s search for a new centre-back remains the question. Ten Hag could dip into the market if Maguire departs. He cannot go into the season with Victor Lindelof and the 35-year-old Evans as his only backup options.