MANCHESTER UNITED have triggered automatic extensions on the contracts of three fringe players.
But fans are less than happy about the decision, with one declaring “this is madness.”
Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Victor Lindelof and Hannibal Mejbri were all free to discuss pre-contract agreements with foreign clubs this month.
The trio had entered the final six months of their respective United deals.
But the Red Devils have triggered an automatic year-long extension on each one, keeping the players at Old Trafford until 2025.
United boss Erik ten Hag confirmed the decision, which will prevent the players from departing on a free transfer this summer.
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And he admits the club remain in talks with French duo Raphael Varane and Anthony Martial over fresh deals.
He said: “We are talking with Varane and with Martial. I think that is an internal discussion between the club and the player.
“We have triggered the options on Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Victor Lindelof and Hannibal.”
However, United fans blasted the decision to keep all three for at least another year.
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One said: “This is madness.”
Another declared: “More deadwood with extended stays.”
One noted: “Rewarding failure by handing out new contracts.”
Another added: “Forever in mediocrity.”
Wan-Bissaka, 26, is in his fifth season at United and has made 15 appearances this term.
As for Lindelof, the 29-year-old has been at Old Trafford since 2017 and has played 18 times in the current campaign.
Finally, 20-year-old Hannibal made his debut two seasons ago and has featured nine times this season.
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