Manchester United is reportedly considering a surprising move for Scottish goalkeeper Angus Gunn. This potential acquisition comes as the club aims to restructure its goalkeeping unit, following a period of mixed performances from its current lineup.
United's strategic focus this summer includes a significant overhaul in midfield, with a £39 million deal already secured for Atalanta's Ederson. However, the club is also keen on addressing its goalkeeping situation. The emergence of Senne Lammens as the primary goalkeeper last season brought a sense of stability to the defense, with the 23-year-old Belgian international proving to be a valuable asset since his £18.1 million transfer from Royal Antwerp. This success contrasts sharply with the struggles of previous goalkeepers, Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir.
Goalkeeping Overhaul at Old Trafford
Manchester United is actively pursuing changes within its goalkeeping department, aiming to improve stability and performance. The club has identified Scottish international Angus Gunn as a potential new recruit, signaling a deliberate shift in their roster strategy. This move is part of a broader plan to enhance the team's defensive strength, building on the promising debut season of Senne Lammens. The intention is to create a more reliable and cohesive goalkeeping unit, ensuring strong support for Lammens' continued development and the team's overall success.
The club is looking to offload Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir, whose tenures have been largely disappointing. Onana, acquired for £47.2 million from Inter Milan, and Bayindir, a £4.3 million signing, have both failed to meet expectations. United plans for their permanent departures, with Turkey being a likely destination for both players. Onana spent last season on loan at Trabzonspor, winning the Turkish Cup, and the club is interested in retaining him. Bayindir has been linked with Besiktas, which is also reportedly interested in Onana. These departures would free up space and resources for new talent, enabling United to reshape its goalkeeping options effectively.
The Search for a New Number Two
With the anticipated departures of Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir, Manchester United is actively searching for a new second-choice goalkeeper to support Senne Lammens. This recruitment is crucial to maintaining squad depth and ensuring a strong backup option. The club has already secured third-choice goalkeeper Tom Heaton for another season with a one-year contract extension, indicating a clear strategy for the hierarchy of their goalkeeping staff.
Several candidates are being considered for the number two spot. Sam Johnstone, a product of Manchester United’s academy now with Wolverhampton Wanderers, is one option, especially given his club's recent relegation. Another potential surprise move is for Leeds United's Karl Darlow, whose contract is set to expire. However, a new report from The Sun suggests that Angus Gunn, Scotland’s number one goalkeeper, is also a target. Gunn, who recently became a free agent after leaving Nottingham Forest, offers a sensible and budget-friendly solution. Standing at 6’5” with extensive experience across the English football pyramid, his arrival would not only provide solid support for Lammens but also allow for the much-desired exits of Onana and Bayindir, bringing considerable satisfaction to the club's fanbase.
