Henderson’s Sheff Utd extension confirmed after ‘prolonged’ Man Utd talks

Sheffield United have confirmed that goalkeeper Dean Henderson has extended his loan contract from Manchester United to cover the remainder of the protracted season.

Henderson was set to return to Old Trafford on Tuesday under the original terms of his loan.

However, as with many other Premier League players, the two clubs have agreed to a short-term extension.

“Goalkeeper Dean Henderson will remain at Bramall Lane until the end of the season, after a deal was struck with Manchester United following prolonged discussions between the respective parties in recent weeks,” a Blades statement read.

Speculation remains, however, over Henderson’s long-term future.

David de Gea’s form for United has dropped since the start of last season, with Henderson impressing.

However, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has maintained that De Gea remains “the best goalkeeper in the world“.

The United boss did insist, though, that Henderson would become the club’s No. 1 in the years to come.

Sheffield United also confirmed the futures of six other players.

The statement added: “Dutch forward Richairo Zivkovic will also remain in South Yorkshire until the conclusion of the 2019/20 campaign, after a deal was agreed with his Chinese parent club Changchun Yatai.

“Meanwhile, Phil Jagielka, Jack Rodwell, Kieron Freeman and Leon Clarke have penned Covid-19 contract extensions to their deals, which were due to expire at the end of this month.

“This means the quartet will also be available for selection for the remainder of the term.

“Two players though won’t feature for the Blades again this term. Midfielder Mo Besic has returned to Everton, whilst Panos Retsos has returned to Bayer Leverkusen, with the club deciding not taking up the option to purchase on a permanent deal.”

The Blades return to action on Thursday, facing Tottenham in South Yorkshire.