Manchester United are facing an uphill struggle to keep Marouane Fellaini at the club.
United have been locked in contract talks with the Belgian since last season with Jose Mourinho determined to keep Fellaini in his squad.
Fellaini, who turns 30 next week, was offered a new contract in September but rejected the deal.
United remain hopeful that they can still reach an agreement with him.
Fellaini's current contract expires at the end of the season and potentially he could sign a pre-contract agreement with another side in January.
It is understood Manchester United will not look to sell Fellaini in the next transfer window, regardless of his contract situation, and are willing to risk him leaving in the summer for nothing.
Last month, Mourinho admitted he was "worried" about Fellaini's contract situation.