Report: United defy Mourinho by offering Martial new 5-year contract

Manchester United continue to undermine Jose Mourinho's authority, with reports suggesting club executive Ed Woodward offered ostracized winger Anthony Martial a new contract.

Martial is considering signing a five-year deal with the Red Devils despite Mourinho's desire to sell the 22-year-old, according to The Telegraph's James Ducker. It's the latest indication of Mourinho's diminishing role at United and the club's shift to a more continental model.

Martial's agent, Philippe Lamboley, said in June his client wanted to leave the club and that it was a "well-thought-out decision."

He may feel encouraged to agree to new terms now that Mourinho's position is crumbling. Both players and staff members reportedly feel Mourinho will soon be fired, especially if United fail to produce three points against Burnley on Sunday.

Mourinho's relationship with Martial began to fray during United's preseason tour, when the Frenchman notified the club he was leaving early to witness the birth of his child. He was reportedly fined £180,000 for failing to keep officials informed of his whereabouts.

Martial was dropped from the squad completely for Monday's 3-0 defeat to Tottenham following a poor showing against Brighton & Hove Albion.