Skinner eyes Earps deal and extended stay for loan star Malard

Marc Skinner has reiterated his desire to see Mary Earps sign a new deal at Manchester United — and confirmed Melvine Malard's loan could lead to a longer stay.

England keeper Earps, 30, will be a free agent at the end of the season but Skinner has not given up hope of her sticking around. 

Speaking ahead of Thursday's Conti Cup clash with Leicester, the United boss said: "The reality is, of course I want Mary to stay. I've been very clear on that throughout. 

"I deal with the football side so the club are working with Mary to try and look at what that deal looks like. 

"I play Mary because of how good she is for us, does the job we exactly want her to do and excels in it. 

"I couldn't be any more clear that I want Mary to stay at the club. She's a huge part of what I want to build here."

While Earps' future remains uncertain, Skinner has revealed that Melvine Malard is playing her way towards a permanent switch. 

France international Malard, 23, joined United on loan from Division 1 Feminine side Lyon in September. 

And after seeing her net twice in the 4-0 demolition of Women's Super League rivals Tottenham last weekend, Skinner admits another deal could be on the cards. 

He added: "We want to make sure a player fits with not only the team but fits well within the country. Mel's settled brilliantly, you can see her wonderful character. 

"Right now she is performing excellently and is a great member of what we're trying to do. She adds a lot of quality at a great age. 

"I'm sure we'll be looking into what that looks like [beyond the loan deal]. The way she's performing, I'd hope we would look to extend her beyond this current loan deal."