Manchester United transfer news: Marouane Fellaini in talks with unnamed Chinese club

Fellaini signed a new United contract last year but is not viewed as a first-choice under Solskjaer

Marouane Fellaini is nearing the Old Trafford exit door after Manchester United opened talks with an unnamed Chinese club.

Fellaini has played just 31 minutes under caretaker manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and is currently recovering from a calf problem.

Last year, the 31-year-old midfielder signed a new United contract, set to expire in the summer of 2020, which saw him become one of the club’s top earners.

While the English transfer window closes on Thursday, the Chinese Super League deadline is not until 28 February and players can still be sold to China up to that date.

Fellaini, who became the first major signing of the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era in 2014, was considered a loyal servant to Solskjaer’s predecessor Jose Mourinho.

However, Solskjaer’s preference for a fast and fluid style of play is not thought to suit the 6ft4in Belgium international and United are open to a move.

On Monday, Solskjaer suggested that there would be no departures from United before Thursday’s deadline in England.

“At the moment, I can see everyone staying at the club because no deal has been done with anyone I think, but then again there is still a few more days,” he said.

“But I am not too involved in the negotiations so whatever happens, happens. It will be good to get the window closed so we can just focus on the squad and just improving the ones that stay here.”

Fellaini has caught the attention of Chinese Super League clubs in the past, with Guangzhou Evergrande once interested, though the Belgian previously turned down a move to Asia.