Football
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Manchester United tell Darren Fletcher he can leave on a free transfer - sources

Manchester United have told vice-captain Darren Fletcher he can leave on a free transfer, sources have told ESPN FC.

Fletcher was a regular in Louis van Gaal's starting XI on their preseason tour, but the arrival of Angel Di Maria and Daley Blind has restricted the Scot's playing time.

Fletcher, 30, has only started four Premier League games this season and the midfielder has been informed he is free to end his 20-year spell with the club this month if he wants to.

West Ham are said to be leading the chase for the Scot's signature, but Valencia and West Brom are also interested in signing the player, who was made United vice-captain shortly after the squad returned from the United States last summer.

It remains to be seen whether Fletcher will turn out in a United shirt for the 343rd and final time this weekend when the Red Devils host Leicester at Old Trafford.

Fletcher has enjoyed a glittering career at United, winning five Premier Leagues and one Champions League. He also has two League Cup winner's medals and was part of the United team that lifted the FA Cup in 2004.

However, he has had difficult times at the club too. The Scot was sidelined for almost two years after being diagnosed with the debilitating disease ulcerative colitis.

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