Manchester United Left Frustrated As Defensive Target Signs New Deal

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Old Trafford side’s interest in Schalke full-back frustrated.

Atsuto Uchida has signed a new deal at Schalke 04, potentially ending Manchester United’s interest in him – as reported by Goal.

The new deal, as reported on UEFA’s site, is for three years, and comes just in time. Uchida’s current deal runs out in the summer and therefore the Premier League club would have been able to sign him on a pre-contract in January.

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Louis van Gaal is apparently not keen on the unreliable but talented Rafael, and has not been impressed by Chris Smalling either.

Uchida is a hard-working and explosive full-back who would have given United width and defensive cover on the right.

The former Kashima Antlers player has been a consistent performer over the past four seasons, making 133 appearances for Schalke, and has the top tier experience that van Gaal may be looking for as he seeks to strengthen his shaky defence.

A new deal does not rule out a move for Uchida in the summer, but will make it considerably more expensive and van Gaal may now turn his attention elsewhere.

Robetro Di Matteo has turned things round at Schalke since his arrival earlier this month, and has lead his side to two wins in his first three games.

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