Marouane Fellaini ‘agrees to join Besiktas’

Jose Mourinho recently discussed the chance of a new contract for Manchester United defender Luke Shaw. Shaw has recently, slowly, returned to first team action after sitting on the naughty step for the best part of two years. He has looked somewhat competent, which is a chance for most of United’s defence. However, no talks have begun and both Chelsea and Arsenal are lurking with interest. Chelsea were interested in Shaw when Mourinho was in his last spell at Stamford Bridge, and Arsenal need an upgrade on whoever it is they have in every single position.

Spurs defender Toby Alderweireld is at an impasse with the club over a contract renewal. Spurs are reluctant to break their wage ceiling of £110,000. United have been intermittently linked with the versatile central defender, and could be available on the cheap in the summer. The only question is whether he is better than Chris Smalling or Phil Jones - it’s tough and go.

MUST have written an open letter to Manchester United about how best to improve the atmosphere at the club. Unfortunately, they failed to suggest that removing the Glazer family, paying down debt, and reducing the ticket price (they ask for this bit, but not with the former) in the grounds in order to get back the people who were forced out over the last decade and a half. The club is funded to achieve fourth and not much else, the days of enjoying success and attractive football have largely disappeared.

The Independent preview the start of the knockout stages of the Champions League, which is where United struggled unusually for a club of their size and wealth. Two Champions League is still impressive, obviously, but there were plenty of missed chances by Alex Ferguson’s United.

And Marouane Fellaini has apparently agreed to join Besiktas.