Derryman Saul Deeney must extend his Burton Albion contract by Friday or miss out on the club’s FA Cup third round replay with Manchester United this day week.
The 22-year-old goalkeeper can sign a one-month extension and play at Old Trafford but that would tie him to the club until season’s end as the January transfer window will be closed.
Deeney’s existing contract expired after Sunday’s 0-0 draw with United and he is being monitored by league clubs. A commitment to Albion could scupper chances of a swift return to professional ranks.
Burton manager Nigel Clough wants the former Notts County regular to sign but can’t hold talks with the player until the goalkeeper returns from a break in Ireland.
Deeney kept Burton in the third round with a spectacular save to deny Richie Jones late on in Sunday’s game but Clough has warned the youngster he will be replaced should he delay signing.
"We'd like Saul to stay with us until the end of the season," Clough confirmed.
He added: "I presume Saul wants to run out with us at Old Trafford next week but he hasn't signed yet and he should remember we have a perfectly capable and experienced deputy in Martin Taylor."
Deeney, who joined after a controversial split from Notts County in October, has until Friday to extend his stay at the Pirelli Stadium.
One thing is for sure, Deeney’s nine brothers will want to see him line out at Old Trafford as they’re all passionate Manchester United supporters.
The BBC confirmed today they will broadcast the game live on BBC One.
Additional reporting: PA
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