SERGIO REGUILON could remain at Manchester United until the end of the season after Tyrell Malacia suffered an injury setback.
The left-back joined on a season-long loan from Tottenham and has made seven appearances so far.
But there was a break clause in the loan agreement which means United could have sent him back in January.
However it appears Reguilon will be needed as cover for Luke Shaw for several more weeks as Malacia is some way off fitness.
Malacia, 24, underwent surgery on a knee injury in the summer and it was hoped the Dutchman would already be back in action.
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But the club revealed he suffered a setback in his rehabilitation which required more surgery - he is now not expected back until the new year.
Malacia is continuing his recovery at Carrington but will take a few more weeks to get back to full fitness.
Shaw has just returned from several months out so Reguilon will likely be kept as a precaution, as Erik ten Hag will want to avoid a repeat of playing players like Sofyan Amrabat out of position.
United issued an update on Malacia yesterday that read: "Tyrell Malacia is on course to return to action early next year, as he recovers from a knee injury.
"The Dutch left-back has not played so far this season, following an operation over the summer.
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"Unfortunately, he suffered a setback during his rehabilitation, which required further surgery.
"This has been successfully completed and Malacia is now back at Carrington and working hard to be fit early in the new year."
