According to Metro, Ander Herrera could be open to a Manchester United exit as early as January if the club don’t resolve his contract situation soon.

What’s the story?

Herrera first arrived at Old Trafford in the summer of 2014 when the Premier League giants signed him from Athletic Bilbao. The Spaniard has since proved himself to be a technically gifted, hard working and versatile squad member at United.

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According to the aforementioned report, the 29-year-old would like to stay with United and manager Jose Mourinho wishes to keep him but so far the club have failed to offer him agreeable new contract terms. His current deal expires at the end of this season, meaning he will be a free agent next summer unless he signs a new deal at Old Trafford before then.

In the event of Herrera’s exit, United must identify his replacement early and ensure they land their man. That target ought to be Dani Parejo of Valencia. 

A perfect fit

Like Herrera, Parejo is an extremely fit, hard working and consistent central midfielder, and he also offers a greater goal threat from deep than his compatriot. 

The Spain international would be an additional creative outlet for Mourinho to deploy and is also diligent in his defensive responsibilities. His combined attributes make him the perfect Herrera replacement, and perhaps even represent something of an upgrade. 

Transfermarkt value the Valencia man at £18 million. If United were able to secure his signature for a fee in that region then the Red Devils will have bagged themselves a bargain. With Parejo onboard, the club might even find themselves hardly missing Herrera at all.