Man Utd boss Skinner sends firm message to Arsenal over Russo contract saga
Marc Skinner believes WSL leaders Manchester United can retain the services of forward Alessia Russo despite Arsenal's continued transfer pursuit.
Russo was the subject of two world-record bids from Arsenal in the final days of the January transfer window, with the Gunners looking to add goals to their squad after injuries to Beth Mead and Vivianne Miedema. But the star striker will remain - for now - at United, after both deals were rejected.
However, Russo's contract expires this summer and unless United can agree an extension with the England international she will leave on a free at the end of the season. It was also reported that Arsenal offered other players, including Stina Blackstenius, as part of the second offer but United refused to sell Russo to a title rival at such a crucial point in the season.
Although interest in United's No.23 from other clubs won't disappear, Skinner hasn't lost hope that she will still be part of his squad next season.
"I will try everything in our power to do so [to keep Russo]," he said. "There are always factors in it. I don't hide things. There's definitely parts we need to work out but actually I think she has a real love for this club and we have a real love for her."
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Skinner also revealed he spoke to Russo following the deadline day drama and that she is committed to helping the club be successful this season.
Marc Skinner has taken United to top of the WSL (Manchester United via Getty Images)"I spoke with Alessia this morning and we had a really good meeting, really positive. She wants to win here. I can't speak any more highly of her attitude. She just gets on with her job.
"She has a great attitude and is exactly the type of person we are looking to keep here, keep having negotiations with and keep conversations around that."
United currently sit top of the WSL on goal difference from holders Chelsea, with Arsenal just three points behind. And Skinner believes that maintaining the services of their big stars is crucial to any chase for silverware.
"I would be very hopeful and we're going to try to work off the field to do that (negotiate Russo's contract) But on the field Alessia and I will continue to work towards this club's success.
"What's clear from this window is that as Manchester United we don't want to be a selling club. We want to be a team that builds to try and push for titles. We're a club that has fierce ambition."
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