Manchester United are 'keen' to tie Alejandro Garnacho down to a new long-term contract at Old Trafford, journalist Steve Bates has told GiveMeSport.
The Red Devils are locked in discussions with the Argentina under-20 international's representatives after he has broken into Erik ten Hag's plans.
GiveMeSport Transfer Update
Man United contract news - Alejandro Garnacho
According to the Mirror, Manchester United are looking to persuade Garnacho into signing the longest contract in the club’s history.
The report suggests a £32,000-per-week salary has been agreed, but the winger's family and close advisors do not want him to commit to an eight-year deal.
Manchester United are desperate for Garnacho to put pen-to-paper as he has entered the final 18 months of his current agreement, which is worth £5,000-per-week.
Respected journalist Dean Jones recently told GiveMeSport that the 18-year-old has the potential to go on and become an £80million asset for the Red Devils.
Uncertainty over Garnacho's long-term future has resulted in Real Madrid and Juventus showing an interest, leading to Manchester United insisting he is not for sale, while Atletico Madrid have been wanting to tempt him back to the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium.
What has Steve Bates said about Garnacho?
Bates understands that the length of a new contract is proving to be a stumbling block and other clubs are willing to meet Garnacho's demands if Manchester United fail to do so.
The journalist is aware that the Red Devils do not want to see the South American move onto pastures new anytime soon.
Bates told GiveMeSport: "If United don't offer Garnacho the kind of contract that he wants, there will be other clubs out there who will.
"I think the length of contract is maybe a bit of an issue at the moment, in the negotiation process. But, obviously, United are keen to tie him down for as long as they can and also protect him as a player.
"They don't want to lose him, perhaps to Real Madrid or another predator, later down the line."
Read more: January Transfer Window 2023: When Does It Begin, Rumours and Everything You Need To Know
Are Man United confident of tying Garnacho down to a new deal?
It appears they are as transfer guru Fabrizio Romano recently told GiveMeSport that Manchester United are relaxed over Garnacho's contract situation.
The respected Italian journalist also revealed positive discussions have been held and the Red Devils feel an agreement will be reached in the not-too-distant future.
That will be music to ten Hag's ears as the Manchester United chief has publicly admitted his admiration for Garnacho, claiming he has ‘individual skills that can make the difference’.
The teenager shone during the derby win over Manchester City earlier this month, with Sofascore statistics showing he grabbed an assist on his way to a 7.0 match rating.
It is abundantly clear that Manchester United should prioritise handing Garnacho fresh terms as soon as possible.
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