Manchester United are facing up to the prospect of selling defenders Chris Smalling and Phil Jones this summer, to avoid losing the pair for nothing next summer, reports the Daily Mirror.
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According to the Mirror, both players are yet to open talks on a new deal, with their current contracts set to expire at the end of next season. Both players struggled for form earlier this season, but their recent improvements mean United would be loathe to lose them.
The duo impressed in United’s recent Premier League victories over Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool, which has given Louis van Gaal’s side a five point cushion on the fourth and final Champions League place.
Despite running somewhat low on time to make a decision about the pair’s futures, United are said to be relaxed about the situation. Jones, 23, and Smalling, 25, are regarded as key players by their manager, despite criticism from the likes of former Arsenal defender Martin Keown.