Manchester United set to lose long-serving defender in January
According to MEN, Marcos Rojo is set to depart Manchester United in the January transfer window.
The Argentine defender has now been at Old Trafford for more than 5 years, but he’s never managed to become a regular in the starting XI.
He’s mainly provided cover for injury-ridden Luke Shaw at left back, while also occasionally playing as a center half. This season, he’s made only 9 appearances at the halfway mark.
The 29-year-old has always been a useful squad player at United. The signing of Harry Maguire last summer has severely limited his chances, even though Chris Smalling left for Roma on loan.
Axel Tuanzebe and Phil Jones have been the backups for starters Victor Lindelof and Maguire in the current campaign. Eric Bailly, who suffered a serious knee injury in pre-season, is also on the verge of returning.
Coupled with United’s improved defensive record in recent games, that means Rojo has virtually no chance of getting increased game time in the second half of the season.
He came close to joining Everton in the summer, but the two clubs couldn’t come to an agreement. While United wanted to sell Rojo on a permanent deal, the Toffees were more keen on a temporary loan signing.
With at least one incoming transfer expected, letting Rojo leave will also considerably lower United’s wage bill. He currently earns a massive £160,000-per-week.
Even though Rojo has recovered to full fitness after a muscle injury, he’s reportedly been given time off to consider the possibility of a transfer. Ole Gunnar Solskjær is understood to be ready to let him leave if a reasonable offer arrives.
The former Sporting CP star will also be hoping that a transfer will help him get back in the Argentina national team. He returned to play for his country in August, and Argentina will also host the upcoming Copa America tournament in June.
Up next for United is a trip to the Emirates to take on struggling Arsenal, which will be a huge match in the Red Devils’ bid for the top 4.