Solskjaer set for new United deal

Manchester United are set to offer Ole Gunnar Solskjaer a new contract.

The Norwegian striker’s present deal runs out in the summer and there were fears the broken cheekbone he picked up on reserve team duty at Middlesbrough earlier this month could wreck his chances of getting another.

But, despite spending the best part of three seasons on the sidelines, Alex Ferguson wants to keep Solskjaer at the club and chief executive David Gill has revealed the intention of offering the 33-year-old pay-as-you-play terms.

“We want to keep Ole at the club,” Gill told The Manchester Evening News.

“We are going to sort that out. He has been a great player for us and a fantastic individual.

“I know he wants to stay and I am sure something will be sorted out.

“We have to make sure any deal reflects the situation and that it is appropriate.

“Both parties want to make it work and I am sure we will.”

It is thought Gill wants to make Solskjaer an ambassador of the new charitable Manchester United Foundation, which has been launched to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the Busby Babes' first League Championship.

As the player whose injury-time goal famously secured United the Champions League trophy in 1999, Solskjaer has always held a special place in fans’ hearts and news he will be staying on will be greeted with delight.

Solskjaer has battled back from two serious knee operations and captained the club in the FA Cup ties against Burton Albion in January.