Martial leaves France squad to agree United deal

Monaco striker Anthony Martial has left France’s training camp at Clairefontaine to travel to Manchester United, where he is expected to agree a deal to sign for the Premier League club.

Reports emerged on Sunday that United were interested in the 19-year-old Frenchman, who has 15 senior goals to his name following spells with Lyon and Monaco.

Martial had arrived at Clairefontaine on Monday as Didier Deschamps’ men prepared for international friendlies with Portugal and Serbia this week.

However, the forward duly exited the France camp and will return on Tuesday as United seek to tie up the deal before the UK transfer deadline.

A statement from the French Football Federation read: “Anthony Martial arrived on Monday at 11:00 at the gathering of the France team at Clairefontaine. He requested permission from Didier Deschamps to travel to England to sign a contract with Manchester United.

“Given the exceptional circumstances, the coach has acceded to the request of the player. Anthony Martial left Clairefontaine on Monday at 12:00. He will return on Tuesday morning.”

Martial – who was a reported target for Tottenham earlier this year – agreed a new four-year contract at the Stade Louis II in June.