Manchester United trigger release clause to end misfit's Old Trafford stay

Manchester United have decided to cut short Sergio Reguilon's loan spell at Old Trafford, with the left-back now set to return to Tottenham.

Reguilon joined United in September to provide cover after both Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia picked up injuries. The 27-year-old has made 12 appearances across all competitions, seven of which have been starts.

Shaw was out of action for three months with a muscle problem but returned to action in November and, although he has missed United's last two games with a niggle, it is only thought to be minor.

Malacia, meanwhile, is still yet to play this season due to a knee injury but the club stated last month that the Dutchman was 'on course to return to action early next year'. As a result, United have decided to take advantage of the break clause in Reguilon's loan deal and send him back to his parent club.

It remains to be seen what comes next for Reguilon, who does not appear to be in Ange Postecoglou's plans. Destiny Udogie has firmly established himself as Tottenham's first-choice left-back, while Emerson Royal and Ben Davies have also featured there this season.

Udogie was signed by Spurs in 2022, but was immediately loaned to Udinese for the rest of the season. However, he has become a key player under Postecoglou this season and was rewarded with a new long-term contract last month that runs to 2030.

"I'm really happy... happy because to be here at this club is a big joy for me, and happy for this opportunity," the 21-year-old told club media. "From the first day I came here, I felt at home, with the players, the coaching staff, the whole club, I feel so welcome.

"It's the way everyone at the club respects you, the players, everyone. The Premier League is very tough, it's a physical league, intense... the staff are doing big work every day, and it's showing on the pitch.

"It's the most difficult league, you have to be ready mentally, physically, and I'm finding a good experience. Every day I'm learning something new, every day working with great players."

Udogie is not the only young star to have committed his long-term future to Tottenham recently, with 21-year-old midfielder Pape Mate Sarr also signing a new contract with the club this month that runs until 2030.