Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick is reportedly set to be asked by club officials to take a pay cut in order to extend his stay at Old Trafford.
The 35-year-old has continued to form a crucial part of the team this season despite his advancing years, and Jose Mourinho certainly values his influence and contribution.
However, as reported by The Sun, although United are keen to offer him a contract extension, they will only do so if he agrees to a reduction on his current £130,000-a-week wages.
It’s claimed that it’s a strategy that the club have always adopted with players in their 30s, and they are willing to offer him a deal worth £70,000-a-week in order to secure his future for another year as he serves as a back-up option and a mentor to the younger players in the squad.
The former England international has made 19 appearances in all competitions so far this season, and has enjoyed an impressive record of helping his side remain unbeaten in most of those games that he has featured in.
United will eventually have to find a long-term replacement for Carrick as they can’t continue to rely upon him to play such a prominent role, but while that search continues, it will be a welcome boost for all concerned to see him extend his stay in Manchester.
Now the question is whether or not he’s willing to take a sizeable pay cut, as although his likely priority will be to stay at Old Trafford, if he is offered a big money contract to see out his playing days elsewhere, perhaps he will take it and opt to move on instead as Mourinho eyes a clear-out and further big-name signings.