Man Utd in wonderkid talks but face competition from European giants - Romano
Tom Weber
- Updated: 27 Sept 2023 19:56 BST
- 3 min read
Manchester United are planning to hand Hannibal Mejbri a new contract, but he is a wanted man, according to Fabrizio Romano.
It would be an exaggeration to call the 20-year-old a revelation because of a few good games, but it is true that Hannibal has stolen the spotlight at Old Trafford in recent days.
The youngster was thrust into Man Utd's starting line-up against Burnley - a must-win game - and he absolutely delivered, breaking a club record in terms of distance covered. He again featured and starred in the comfortable midweek EFL Cup win over Crystal Palace.
REVEALED: Man Utd wonderkid's recording-breaking stats
The Tunisian midfielder had been the subject of speculation in the summer because there was plenty of loan interest in him after a breakthrough stint at Birmingham City in the Championship last term. Erik ten Hag, however, decided to keep him around and this decision is paying off big time.
Now, United want to reward the youngster with a bumper new deal, claims Fabrizio Romano.
What did Romano say?
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said: "The midfielder, 20 years old, is doing very good for Man Utd. [He] scored a goal against Brighton, did very well in their recent games, Erik ten Hag is trusting him."
"What I can reveal to you is that during the summer - and this is something new - Sevilla wanted the player on loan from Man Utd. But it was Erik ten Hag who said 'no.' He wanted to keep Hannibal in the squad for the rotation, to give him some chances, and now Hannibal is doing very good."
READ: Man Utd make MASSIVE Ten Hag decision amid mounting pressure
"What I can tell you is that Man Utd are prepared to open talks with Hannibal and to offer him a new deal. The current deal expires in two years, so it's not something urgent or imminent, but it's something that Man Utd want to do."
"At the same time, the player will take his time because now, he's focused on the games, on training, he wants to do his best for Man Utd, to fight for the club, the badge and for the opportunity he is having, and then, in the next weeks and months, [he will] discuss with Man Utd over a new contract."
"But from what I'm hearing, Sevilla is still there. Sevilla still hope to have the player, maybe on loan in January if the situation changes."
