Manchester United are reportedly in talks with Fenerbahce star Altay Bayındır.
According to CNN Turkey, Premier League giants Manchester United are in talks with Fenerbahce shot-stopper Altay Bayındır regarding a summer move to Old Trafford.
The 25-year-old is one of the best goalkeepers in the Turkish Super Lig and is capped by Turkey at the senior level. He has made 143 appearances for the Turkish club across all competitions, keeping 44 clean sheets in the process.
Bayındır came through the ranks at Ankargucu at the senior level before moving to Fenerbahce in 2019. His current deal at the club runs until 2027. But there remains the possibility that Manchester United could secure him for a throwaway price. This is thanks to a measly €6 million release clause.
This represents excellent value for a goalkeeper who is at best, the second choice at Old Trafford. David de Gea has left the club and has since been replaced by Andre Onana as the first-choice goalkeeper. With Dean Henderson’s future at the club sketchy, it is imperative that the Red Devils bring in a reliable number two.
Bayindir’s agent is currently in talks with Manchester United, and it remains to be seen if the English giants will trigger the player’s release clause. Given the price, it is a no-brainer, allowing them to revamp the goalkeeping roster ahead of the 2023/24 season.
An excellent shot-stopper, Bayindir is a solid keeper who can hold his own against competent opposition. He often rushes down the line and is aggressive when needed. However, unlike Onana, the Turkish international isn’t adept at distribution and is unlikely to displace the Cameroonian should both players be fit and raring to go.
Erik ten Hag will be keen to build upon last season’s Carabao Cup win and will need a roster that is filled with quality and depth. With UEFA Champions League football back on the radar, the Old Trafford outfit can afford to bring in solid players who fit the system and are in the prime of their careers.
Manchester United have lacked a reliable backup goalkeeper since Sergio Romero. While it remains to be seen if they will land Bayindir, the roster has already benefitted from the addition of Onana.
