Dan James and Man United are working on a new deal to keep him at Old Trafford but it comes with a catch-22.
England’s most successful Premier League club is considering a new deal for Welsh prodigy, Daniel James. The pacey winger hasn’t even been at the club for a full season but has impressed enough to guarantee he has a future at Old Trafford.
James made an impressive start to his debut season after making his £15 million switch from Swansea City to United. However, throughout parts of the 2019-2020 campaign, his form dropped, showing many inconstant moments.
James’ season so far
The Welshman has made a total of 37 appearances across all competitions, being called upon regularly by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. He managed to score on his debut coming on as a late substitution in their 4-0 hammering over rivals, Chelsea, on opening day.
Through the course of the season, he tallied up four goals and six assists, his last contribution coming in United’s last piece of action before the COVID-19 forced delay. He scored in United’s 5-0 first leg pummeling over Austrian side, LASK.
His age displays he has a more in the tank and has years of playing time to offer Man United. However, a contribution of 10 goals over 37 fixtures is not exactly enough to warrant a regular starting place in a side fighting for the highest honours in Europe and England
Making space for Sancho
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The reality for Daniel is that he is no Jadon Sancho, even though the duo plays in separate leagues, the English Premier League and German Bundesliga. Sancho’s form has made him England’s most wanted talents.
James, unfortunately, must still grow into the player Welsh manager Ryan Giggs believes him to be. With Rashford, Martial, and Bruno all fit and ready for selection, he already becomes second best.
If/when United add Jadon, and possibly another forward, time and space up front become further limited. Adding even more pressure to his situation, Mason Greenwood has five goals in four starts in his breakthrough season. He will not be overlooked and will be counted on for big moments.
Sad but the best result
Daniel James has become the Harry Wilson of Man United. A brilliant talent noticed for his unmatched pace and deadly deliver, but just not at the stage United need him to be to compete with their English counterparts.
So he is too good to let go of but not good enough to fight for a place when United upgrade in a few areas. This makes the plan in place to renew his deal and send him out to gain experience is the best one they have for now.