While most eyes are on Manchester United and their attempts to sign big-name players to strengthen the squad, one thing they’re working on internally is finding a number 2 goalkeeper. In fact, they have dedicated extra funds and attention to this goalkeeper chase recently.
This comes following their decision to allow Dean Henderson to join Nottingham Forest. The Athletic is reporting that Erik ten Hag has discovered a problem area in retrospectively realising that the team allowed a strong player to leave and is now searching for a “like-for-like” replacement.
Manchester United Goalkeeper Chase Heats Up
#MUFC raise budget for new GK, circa £1m to £7m.
Henderson i/view gave Ten Hag fuller appreciation of situation. Boss ideally wants De Gea challenger so funds could go higher.
Meslier long-term target but #LUFC won’t sell this summer.@dansheldonsporthttps://t.co/bDM6yPLAWV
— Laurie Whitwell (@lauriewhitwell) August 12, 2022
Changing Focus
The club and manager were seemingly happy to allow Tom Heaton to deputise for David de Gea with a budget of £1 million set for a third-string goalkeeper. Now though, they have £7 million ready to sign a player who can attempt to challenge the Spaniard’s spot as number one, with more funds apparently at the club’s disposition if the right man becomes available.
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The dutch manager is reportedly hoping to have three goalkeeping options competing for spots.
Potential Options
While no clear name jumps out The Athletic does mention a few players that the Red Devils could pick up to fill the role. Watford’s Daniel Bachmann was previously linked with a move to Manchester but nothing came of it, Southampton are open to offers for Alex McCarthy while Newcastle United pair Karl Darlow and Martin Dubravka could be available.
Always thinking ahead 🧠#MUFC || #MUTOUR22 pic.twitter.com/19OjlfDPhc
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 24, 2022
Goalkeeper-specific scouts have seemingly been deployed throughout Europe to size up potential targets but with three weeks left in this window, time is ticking. Ten Hag may want a number two option, but securing added depth between the sticks will have to be done very soon.
