Manchester United make Anthony Martial contract decision after agent's comments

Manchester United are prepared to trigger a one-year option on Anthony Martial's contract - even if the Frenchman agitates for a move.

The 22-year-old is frustrated by his lack of regular football under Jose Mourinho following the signing of Alexis Sanchez in January - as well as United's failure to agree a new long-term deal, despite months of negotiations.

His agent Philippe Lamboley revealed last month that Martial is now ready to leave Old Trafford in a summer that has seen Tottenham and Juventus express interest. But United remain adamant his part of their plans, with sources at the club dismissing Lamboley's comments as nothing more than a negotiating tactic.

Executive vice chairman Ed Woodward - who oversaw Martial's shock £36m move from Monaco four years ago - still believes he has the potential to become one of the superstars of world football and is determined to protect his asset.

He is adamant he does not want to sell during this transfer window.

Martial still has year to run on his contract and that can be extended to 2020 if United trigger his option.

Juventus declared an interest in the forward earlier this summer - but the £99.2m signing of Cristiano Ronaldo now leaves Tottenham as his most serious suitors.

Still it is highly unlikely Spurs chairman Daniel Levy will come up with the money to tempt United to cash in.

As with Luke Shaw - who was also signed in the summer of 2015 - the belief among the club's hierarchy is that it is too soon to cut their losses.

Just 12 months ago United insiders spoke of Martial's potential to reach the same heights as countryman Kylian Mbappe, who starred for France at the World Cup.

There was little sign of that last season as he cut a frustrated figure on the fringes of Mourinho's squad and was dropped by France coach Didier Deschamps.

With United intent of further strengthening their attack during this window - with Gareth Bale, Ivan Perisic and Willian all targeted - Martial faces an intense battle for regular football.

But he has impressed teammates and staff with his attitude on his return for pre-season training here in the US.

"He’s very talented," said Ander Herrera. "He can be one of the best players in the world and I think he is very, very focused this season to smash it.

"Now it’s all about work, confidence, about keep playing like he has here. Anthony looks very sharp."

It's notable Lamoboley chose to focus on Martial's contract, rather than his lack of playing time, as his primary reason to leave.

He told RMC Sport in June: “After thinking about all the factors and possibilities, Anthony wants to leave Manchester United. There are lots of factors, and right now it’s too early to talk about them.

"Manchester United want Anthony to extend his deal and do not want him to leave, but we have not reached an agreement for several months.

“Everyone will have their opinion, but I think he needs to resume his career. The time has come.”