United executives have made it clear that improvements to
Fletcher's existing wages are a top priority.
Fletcher is currently paid £3million a year basic at United, but
manager Sir Alex Ferguson now recognises him as one of the most
important players at the club.
The United midfielder, outstanding in last week's victory over
Liverpool, has two years left on his existing deal. But he will be
catapulted into a new pay scheme at the end of the
season.
Fellow midfielder Michael Carrick is paid £80,000 a week, with
the added incentive of a lucrative image rights contract on the
side.
Paul Scholes commands a similar salary. Now that Fletcher is
considered their equal he will be paid a similar sum.
With the obvious exception of Wayne Rooney, Scotland captain
Fletcher has been United's most consistent player this
season.
Despite missing out on last season's Champions League final
through suspension, he has emerged as a stronger player this
year.
He scored the best goal of his career with a volley from outside
the area in a 3-0 victory against Everton in November.
But it is his hard-working performances in the centre of
midfield that have marked him out this season and are the reason
United will tie him down to an improved deal.
United expect negotiations with Fletcher to run smoothly.
