'I've still got a contract here': Ings plays down Man Utd transfer speculation

Danny Ings has played down transfer speculation linking him with a summer switch to Manchester United, but has refused to totally rule out a move to Old Trafford.

Sportsmail reported this week that United are understood to have made the Southampton striker a target for the upcoming transfer window and have reportedly made enquiries about him.

Prolific forward Ings is one of the most valuable assets outside the self-styled 'Big Six' and is Saints' top scorer this season with 12 Premier League goals, despite only making 26 appearances due to several injuries.

And he told Talksport: 'I've got a contract until the summer of 2022. I haven't really acknowledged them (transfer rumours). 'I've just been focused on each game. Ultimately, I've still got a contract here. My main focus is to finish the season strong.'

Ings' contract at St Mary's expires next summer, and with a deal still not agreed yet, the club could choose to sell him this year rather than watch him leave for free in 12 months.

Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has kept Edinson Cavani, 34, at United for another campaign but the club may still bolster their attacking options, with Tottenham striker Harry Kane and Borussia Dortmund's Erling Haaland both recently linked.

According to the Telegraph, Solskjaer is eyeing up Ings as a cheaper option who has pedigree and experience in top-flight English football.

The three-cap England international has scored 47 goals in 96 appearances in all competitions during his three years on the south coast.

And Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl said ahead of his side's match against West Ham on the final day: 'I am confident that he will stay with us.'

Former Red Devils striker Dimitar Berbatov hailed Ings' ability but stated his belief that the 28-year-old moving to Old Trafford would not make sense.

He told Betfair: 'Ings is a good player and I really rate him but I don't think he is what United need at the moment. The club have pretty much everything they need in the striking department at the moment, lots of experience and pace.

'Edinson Cavani keeps scoring, proving his worth and proving how good a decision it was to give him a contract extension, he scored an unbelievable goal the other day. So, with all this in mind, going for Danny Ings makes no sense to me.'