Manchester United have no intention of letting Daniel James leave the club on loan this summer.
The 22-year-old winger joined United in a £15million deal from Swansea City almost exactly a year ago and has surpassed many people's expectations at Old Trafford, scoring four goals and laying on six assists - after becoming a regular under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
And although it was reported earlier this week that United could sanction a loan departure for the 2020/21 season, amid their interest in Borussia Dortmund wide man Jadon Sancho, MEN Sport understands James is set to stay.
The door could be open, however, for James to get a bumper new contract as reward for his excellent debut season at United, though it's understood there have been no talks between the club and the player's representative. That situation will be reviewed when the season is finished.
But Solskjaer views the 22-year-old, who can play on either wing, as a hugely important member of his squad going forward - even if United sign Sancho.
James' searing pace has been a huge asset for United on the counter-attack against fellow 'big six' sides this season, with the Welshman starring in the wins over Chelsea, Man City and Tottenham. And although he hit a goal drought after bagging three goals in his first four United appearances, James broke that in his most recent appearance - in the 5-0 win over LASK Linz in March before the coronavirus pandemic hit.
Sancho is United's top transfer priority for the upcoming window, with the club viewing right-wing as a key area to strengthen.
They have also identified James' international teammates Rabbi Matondo and David Brooks as alternative options if they cannot secure the signing of the 20-year-old Dortmund sensation.
James, who famously came very close to joining Leeds United in January 2019, is said to be settled at United and wants to kick on under Solskjaer. He played most of his football at previous club Swansea on the left-wing but primarily operates on the right for United.
