Manchester United are approaching a hugely important period that could shape the long-term future of several first-team stars.
Contract negotiations are expected to become one of the biggest priorities over the coming months for INEOS.
Several players could walk away as free agents next summer when their current contracts expire in June 2027.
Here are five players who could soon force INEOS into some of the most critical contract discussions of the season.
United hold an option in his contract to trigger a 12-month extension.
When fully fit, the Argentine remains one of the finest ball-playing centre-backs in European football.
His ability to break defensive lines with precise passes has been a defining feature of his performances for both Man United and Argentina.
Ordinarily, extending his contract would be a straightforward decision.
However, his persistent injury record has complicated the situation, as he has failed to surpass 20 Premier League appearances in any of the last three seasons.
There is virtually no debate when it comes to the captain.
Just like the Argentine, United can extend his stay by 12 months, but the club should offer him a fresh deal before 2027 to demonstrate their unwavering faith in him.
Fernandes remains the heartbeat of this team, and his influence extends far beyond goals and assists.
Even as he gets older, his leadership qualities should ensure he remains one of the club’s most valuable figures.
Unlike the above two players, Shaw has no automatic extension clause in his contract.
That means United must reach a decision on his future before he is free to negotiate with overseas clubs in January.
The left-back remarkably started every Premier League match last season, but expecting him to repeat that feat with Champions League football returning would be highly unrealistic.
At 31, a short-term extension appears sensible, although it may only happen if Shaw agrees to accept reduced wages.
The 19-year-old possesses immense talent and has enormous potential.
While United are searching for another left-back this summer, Amass could continue developing as Luke Shaw’s understudy.
Amass enjoyed a productive loan spell at Sheffield Wednesday during the first half of last season, but United appear open to selling him for £6 million.
Harry Maguire signed a one-year extension earlier this year, with United retaining the option to prolong his stay for another season.
The experienced defender enjoyed a resurgence under manager Michael Carrick and once again proved his value to the squad.
Allowing both Casemiro and Maguire to leave in the same summer would have stripped the dressing room of two influential senior leaders.
If the England international can maintain the level he produced last season, another one-year extension could become a realistic possibility.
Stats from Fotmob.com
