Former Manchester United forward Anthony Martial is reportedly eyeing a Premier League return as a free agent. Intermediaries have contacted several English clubs about the 30-year-old's availability this week.
Martial mutually agreed to terminate his contract with Mexican side C.F. Monterrey in June and is now unattached. A free agent can sign for a club even after the transfer window has closed, making his situation a potentially low-risk option for teams needing attacking reinforcement. Manchester United, where Martial made over 300 appearances and scored 90 goals after joining from Monaco in 2015, currently sit 11th in the Premier League with 4 points from three games.
Which clubs have been contacted about Martial?
The report indicates that intermediaries have made approaches to Everton, Leeds United, Crystal Palace, Brighton, Newcastle United, Sunderland, and Tottenham Hotspur. These contacts do not mean all seven clubs are actively pursuing a deal. In fact, Everton have already denied involvement. TeamTalk said: "We have spoken to Everton and they insist they are not one of the clubs to have been contacted."
Everton's need for a striker is clear, however. Their transfer window ended with only one senior striker, Thierno Barry, after failed moves for Folarin Balogun and a rejected offer for Joshua Zirkzee. Manager David Moyes remains under pressure to strengthen his attack. You can view the full Premier League standings to see how all clubs are faring.
Why would a club consider signing Martial?
At 30 and available without a transfer fee, Martial represents a short-term option with proven Premier League experience. His career, however, has not consistently matched the initial hype from his big-money move to Old Trafford. His best performances for Manchester United were not frequent enough over a long period, and he is not considered a player a club would build its future around.
His potential signing is viewed as a low-risk move. Martial has also been linked with clubs in France, Spain, Italy, and Saudi Arabia since becoming a free agent. Manchester United's own attacking options are currently affected by injuries, with Amad Diallo, Carlos Baleba, and Manuel Ugarte all sidelined, as listed on our injuries page.
What is the context for Manchester United?
Erik ten Hag's side have had a mixed start to the 2026/27 season. They have scored 7 goals and conceded 6, giving them a +1 goal difference. They trail league leaders and local rivals Manchester City by 5 points in the early title race. Their next fixture is a massive test: a home match against City on September 13th.
That upcoming derby is a key part of the club's fixtures schedule. Martial's possible return to the English top flight adds an intriguing subplot to the league's narrative, even if it is not with his former club. The Frenchman's next move will be closely watched as he aims to reignite his career in a familiar environment.
