MANCHESTER UNITED have decided to release defender Di’Shon Bernard.
The 22-year-old made one first-team appearance after coming through the Red Devils’ academy.
His one senior outing came under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, when the ex-Manchester United boss threw him into a Europa League clash with Astana in 2019. Bernard subsequently had to bide his time, spending the following two seasons on loan at Salford and Hull.
He was restored to first team training during the first half of the 2022-23 season under current boss Erik ten Hag. But the Dutchman never opted to select Bernard for a matchday squad.
Following his lack of opportunities, the centre-back headed back out on loan in January, this time to Portsmouth. He was often on the bench at Fratton Park, but eventually impressed when he finally broke into the starting XI.
Bernard made 10 appearances for Pompey, including starts in the final four matches of the season. John Mousinho’s side would like to keep him on a permanent deal, but will face competition.
According to The Portsmouth News, Bernard is among a number of Pompey centre-back targets this summer. Club chiefs are aware that they may be made to wait for an answer, with the former United man potentially holding out for a Championship move. Bernard made 26 second-tier appearances during his stint at Hull.
