Man Utd's forgotten man Bailly in talks with Fulham as Old Trafford exit nears

19 August 2023 , 11:15

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Eric Bailly spent last season on-loan with Marseille (Image: Getty Images)

Manchester United defender Eric Bailly has been offered the chance to stay in the Premier League by Fulham.

Bailly has not played for United since 2021 and spent last season on loan in France with Marseille. The centre-back has been deemed surplus to requirements by Erik ten Hag and was left out of the squad that travelled to America for pre-season.

And with the Dutchman hoping to re-sign Jonny Evans on a one-year deal to bolster United's defensive options, it seems clear Bailly's time at Old Trafford is up. Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr had been linked with a move for the Ivory Coast international.

However, the Daily Mail state the deal 'looks to have collapsed' and Fulham are now in talks with Bailly, who has one-year remaining on his United contract. Fulham enjoyed an excellent return to the Premier League last season, finishing 10th under Marco Silva, and are looking to build on their success.

They have already strengthened their squad with the signings of Wolves duo Raul Jimenez and Adama Traore and Ajax defender Calvin Bassey. The report adds they are keen to continue strengthening their defence and that Bailly is on their radar.

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French outlet RMC Sport has also claimed that United have reached an agreement with the player that will allow him to leave for free this summer, with it claimed the 29-year-old has already rejected an offer to join Turkish side Besiktas.

It comes after Bailly appeared to suggest United favour English players in a way that "weakens the team". Speaking last September, Bailly said: "The club should avoid favouring English players and give everyone a chance.

Bailly is now in talks with Fulham (Manchester United via Getty Images)

"[The club should] encourage competition in the dressing room, not just look out for some. I've always had the feeling that the national player was prioritised. That doesn't happen at Chelsea or other big Premier League clubs.

"Some people take it for granted that they are going to start, and that weakens the team. Luckily, Ten Hag has a lot of character and I hope he can change that dynamic." Ten Hag later responded to Bailly's comments, stating: "I cannot say [anything] about that.

"I was not in charge last season." And when asked if a player's nationality would ever come into his thinking with regards to team selection, he replied: "Not for me."

Matthew Cooper