Man United to open contract talks with star duo
Published 22:57 08/10/11 By Alistair Grant
Manchester United will move to secure the long-term futures of Danny Welbeck and Tom Cleverley by opening contract talks this week.
The pair have been in breathtaking form as United have swept to the top of the Premier League, with a new-look team underpinned by youth.
Manager Sir Alex Ferguson wants the English youngsters’ progress over the past 12 months recognised with lucrative five-year deals.
Welbeck, who turns 21 next month, enjoyed a season-long loan at Sunderland last term that seems to have vastly embellished his game with both experience and confidence.
Welbeck, who is also establishing himself in the England squad, has two years remaining on his present deal, but Sir Alex is keen to nail down the Manchester-born striker as he moulds yet another footballing dynasty.
In fact, Welbeck is on the verge of becoming only the second striker – after Mark Robins – to emerge through the youth ranks and establish himself in the first-team since Mark Hughes.
Cleverley, too, has two years to run on his current three-year deal.
Paul Scholes retirement created a vacancy in midfield and Cleverley has seized his chance with zeal. The England Under- 21 international’s bright start was curtailed after a tackle by Kevin Davies at Bolton last month, but he has impressed Ferguson enough to clinch a new contract.
