“I have a good feeling” – Ten Hag says United are working on agreeing deal with star

Manchester United sealed their place in the next season’s Champions League with a 4-1 win over Chelsea. The emphatic performance and guarantee of seeing the Red Devils in Europe’s elite competition weren’t the only thing that pleased the Old Trafford faithful, as Erik ten Hag’s post-match comments suggested similar encouraging strides are being made off the pitch as well.

Marcus Rashford returned to action, replacing injured Antony before the half-hour mark, and scored United’s third goal of the night, capitalising on a mistake from Wesley Fofana inside the penalty area.

The close-range finish made Rashford the first United player since Robin van Persie in 2012-13 to reach the 30-goal mark in all competitions.

Rashford has long been linked with Paris Saint-Germain, and his prolific return this season is only going to attract more interest from European giants, who are aware his current contract is set to run out in the summer of 2024.

However, Ten Hag is optimistic about extending his most reliable goal-scorer’s contract. “We are working on that. I have a good feeling about it,” the Dutchman said. “Marcus wants to stay.”

Four different players got on the score-sheet against Chelsea on Thursday night, but for the most part of the season, United playmakers have relied on Rashford to finish off chances. Anthony Martial, Jadon Sancho and Antony are all yet to reach double figures for goals this season.

Ten Hag wants to sign a new striker this summer. But before the hierarchy jumps into the transfer market for a new face, it’d be better to first tie down their in-house star talent. And the United manager’s comments indicate they are trying to do the same.