Manchester United to release defender ahead of summer transfer window

Manchester United have decided to release defender Di'Shon Bernard ahead of the summer transfer window.

The 22-year-old was out of contract at the end of the season, but United had the option of extending his deal by an additional year.

The Manchester Evening News understands United have opted against triggering that clause so that the defender is free to sign with a new club permanently this summer.

Bernard spent the second-half of last season on loan with League One side Portsmouth, who are understood to be one of the sides currently in talks over signing him when the transfer window opens on Wednesday.

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The United academy graduate had to wait his time for an opportunity at Fratton Park after arriving in January, but finished the campaign well by starting their last four matches.

Bernard has played in every EFL division, having previously spent a season-long loan at League Two Salford and another with Championship side Hull.

The Manchester Evening News revealed in January that Bernard's preference was to move to the Championship, but he was eventually convinced to drop a level given the assurances of playing time at Portsmouth.

Bernard was part of United's training squad for their camp in Spain last December and played 45 minutes during the second-half of their clash against Cadiz.

He leaves having made one competitive first-team appearance for United against Astana in 2019.

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