Luke Shaw Contract: Man Utd Confident of Keeping Left-Back Beyond Summer

Talks Expected After the New Year

Manchester United are increasingly optimistic that Luke Shaw will agree an extension at Old Trafford. The 31-year-old is due to become a free agent next summer, but the club want to keep a defender Michael Carrick clearly trusts.

Football Insider reports that discussions will begin after the turn of the year, with United hoping to settle the matter before Shaw’s deal enters its final months. Former chief scout Mick Brown also believes the club are working towards an agreement.

Why Carrick Values Shaw

Signed from Southampton for £27 million in 2014, Shaw started every Premier League game last season. Given his past injury problems, that consistency has eased many concerns about his long-term future, and his standing has grown under Carrick.

United Still Want a Younger Left-Back

A new deal would not end United’s search for competition. They missed out on Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall last summer, while Crystal Palace’s Tyrick Mitchell has emerged as another option because of his contract situation.

Our Opinion

United’s approach looks sensible. Extending Shaw gives the club flexibility rather than closing the door on recruitment. At 31, though, he should not be the long-term foundation of the left side. A short deal on sensible terms, alongside a younger successor, feels like the right balance for a squad competing on several fronts.