Manchester United take risk by refusing to sell Mary Earps despite world-record Arsenal interest

Mary Earps will stay at Manchester United despite interest from Arsenal — until January at least.

Arsenal were desperate to sign Earps this year and had made a world-record bid for a woman goalkeeper.

However, United turned down the offer from the Gunners last month and are refusing to sell.

That is despite the fact that Earps' contract will expire at the end of the season.

It means that Earps will be free to speak to other clubs in January, meaning that she could leave.

But the England international has told United that she will stay put — for now.

Despite Earps staying, goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce is closing in on the move from OL Reign in a £100,000 transfer.

However, United still remain desperate to tie Earps down to a new contract after her heroics with the Lionesses at the World Cup.

Sarina Wiegman's side reached the final over the summer before losing to Spain and Earps was a key part of the team, saving a penalty in the final.

Spain went on to win the World Cup and one of the country's stars has made the move to United.

Irene Guerrero, who was an unused substitute during the final, has joined from Atletico Madrid and revealed she cannot wait to get started.

United boss Marc Skinner said: “Irene is a World Cup winner whose quality is an excellent addition to our team.

«The experience she brings, both domestically and internationally, will be key as we pursue success across the multiple competitions we face this season.

»We are delighted to bring a player of Irene’s stature to Manchester United Women.”

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