French forward Anthony Martial was a peripheral figure at Manchester United last season. His lack of game time infuriated fans who created an online campaign '#FreeMartial' in protest. It appears it was not only supporters who were frustrated as Anthony Martial pushes for a move away.
The 22-year-old's agent Philippe Lamboley has been a prominent figure in recent weeks, publicly confirming that Martial wants to leave the club. Now several reports in the English media have reported that Martial is adamant he wants a new club before the transfer deadline closes on August 9.
The Observer confirmed that while the club are aware of Martial's grievances, they will refuse to sell him and active an extension clause which would tie him down until summer 2020.
It has been a difficult twelve months for the former Monaco prodigy. His patchy club form cost him at international level and he was omitted from the France squad that ultimately won the World Cup. Per Sky Sports and the Sunday Times, one of the club's interested in signing him is Chelsea.
Manchester United have been successful in similar situations in the past. Chief executive Ed Woodward retained Wayne Rooney in 2013 amidst rumours he was trying to force a move.
With their Premier League opener just 19 days away, Manchester United will hope to avoid any transfer controversy and focus on footballing matters.
