Ashley Young Contract: Latest News, Rumours on Talks with Manchester United

Manchester United have opened negotiations with Ashley Young with a view to extending the midfielder's stay at Old Trafford.

Young's current contract is set to expire next summer, and according to ESPN FC's Peter O'Rourke, the Red Devils are keen to tie down his talents for the long term after showing marked improvement this season:

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The winger has established himself as a key figure for Louis van Gaal this season after being linked with a move away from Old Trafford last summer. The England international has been used in an unfamiliar wing-back role by Van Gaal, but has impressed in the defensive position with the Dutch coach using a 3-5-2 formation at times this season.

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The 29-year-old fell down United's pecking order in recent seasons, but he's shown remarkable versatility to offer new potential as a malleable conduit between defence and midfield this season.

The Guardian's Noorruddean Choudry even goes as far as to say the once outcast wide man could be the key to United finishing among the Premier League's top four this season:

Under Louis van Gaal, Young's status at Old Trafford has been revived at wing-back, reestablishing himself as a player of use to the club after some time out in the cold.

Young moved to United on a five-year deal in 2011, but there is yet to be any indication in regards to the length of the contract United will offer their midfield asset.