Manchester United have reportedly shortlisted Jan Oblak to replace David de Gea who has been heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid.
According to Ciaran Kelly of Manchester Evening News, Manchester United have been handed a huge breakthrough in signing Atletico Madrid number one Jan Oblak in the summer. It is understood that the representatives of the player were in the city to discuss a probable transfer at the end of the season.
The Red Devils have been heavily reliant on the services of keeper David de Gea for the past few seasons. The Spaniard has been omnipresent between the sticks for the Manchester outfit, and has often kept his team in matches due to his supreme shot-stopping abilities.
If it were not for a last minute crisis situation two summers ago, de Gea would not be donning the jersey for United, and would instead be in his native Spain, representing UEFA Champions League holders Real Madrid.
Despite them not being able to get their hands on United’s prized asset, the rumours linking him with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu have not gone away. It seems that the Spanish side are once again knocking on his doors, and a move appears to be highly likely.
With backup goalkeeper Sergio Romero arguably not up to the level United need to take up first-team responsibilities, manager Jose Mourinho will have to invest heavily in the transfer market to rope in a keeper of his liking.
Oblak proves to be one such option, as he has been a consistent performer for Atletico Madrid for the past few seasons. He seems confident with the ball at his feet, and is also capable of making acrobatic saves out of the top drawer.
However, it is believed that the player has a staggering release clause of £85 million in his contract and the competition is heating up for his services. If United opt against signing him, AC Milan keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma is also a viable option.
That being said, United will be trying to all they can to keep hold of their current number one. The Spaniard has been there at the club since the days of Sir Alex Ferguson, and has formed a prolific understanding with a number of the Red Devils players.
It remains to be seen whether Real can tempt the club into letting go of their star goalkeeper. The interest is guaranteed from their side, and the decision may now be in the players hands, and he is expected to make a decision within the next couple of months.
