Manchester United are exploring cost-effective goalkeeping options after making an approach for Feyenoord’s Justin Bijlow.
According to The Athletic, Manchester United are exploring signing a cost-effective goalkeeper, with Justin Bijlow an option. The Red Devils have reportedly approached Feyenoord to understand the conditions for a transfer, with the Eredivise side not particularly keen to part ways.
Manchester United entered a pivotal period of this transfer window as they look to ramp up their efforts on bringing in new players. The report details the requirements for Erik ten Hag, with a centre-forward and a goalkeeper on top of their priorities.
Ten Hag and the club’s big issue is the financial aspects of making any deal. Manchester United have already agreed on a £60 million deal for Mason Mount with Chelsea. The report insists they will not look to go beyond the £100 million net spend mark, which makes things tricky for the manager to plan the season.
The club have put themselves in a spot with the debacle with David de Gea. It has come to light that despite the Spaniard signing on new terms, Manchester United reportedly pulled out their offer, effectively making him a free agent as of Friday.
There is still a chance for de Gea to continue, and if that happens, Manchester United could use the funds for a new goalkeeper on a striker. Inter Milan’s Andre Onana remains a key target but will be expensive. The Serie A giants are demanding a figure close to £50 million as talks continue between the two clubs.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are trying out alternative routes to cut costs on a new goalkeeper signing. They have reportedly approached Feyenoord for their 25-year-old goalkeeper Justin Bijlow, who recently emerged as a target. The Dutch international has been in good form and winning the Eredivisie title.
Feyenoord are keen to keep Bijlow, but Manchester United will hope to tempt them with a sizeable offer. The price tag for the 25-year-old goalkeeper, who has kept 45 career clean sheets at the club level, remains unclear. He will come cheaper than some of their other targets, including Onana and Diogo Costa.
Bijlow might also push for a move to Old Trafford if the route to becoming the No.1 here seems clear. If they can agree on a deal with Feyenoord, then letting de Gea go may not hurt their budget as many have predicted. Meanwhile, Dean Henderson could also follow suit and possibly join Nottingham Forest, leaving Tom Heaton as their recognised No.2.
