29 year Man United target already looking at long-term rental properties in Manchester
Manchester United’s decision to offer a new long-term contract to goalkeeper David De Gea has come under scrutiny, especially after his recent performance in Seville. The question arises whether the 32-year-old is a suitable choice for today’s game, where playing out from the back is crucial. Unlike other top teams such as Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal who have invested in ball-playing goalkeepers like Ederson, Alisson, and Aaron Ramsdale respectively, De Gea’s ability to make sound decisions and accurate passes from the back has been called into question.
De Gea’s Weaknesses on Display
While De Gea is known for his reflexes and shot-stopping ability, his weakness in kicking has been evident in recent matches. In the Europa League quarter-final against Seville, De Gea’s poor clearance put his captain Harry Maguire in trouble, leading to a costly defeat. As Manchester United looks to the future under manager Erik ten Hag, the debate about De Gea’s suitability for the modern game and the team’s goalkeeping profile becomes a pressing issue.
Manchester United’s Search for Alternatives
Manchester United has made a bid for De Gea, but the player may have to accept a pay cut from his current £350,000-a-week salary. However, there are reports that the club’s recruitment team is considering other options, including Valencia’s Girogi Mamardashvili, who is valued at £45 million. Scouts have also been looking at Porto’s Diogo Costa and Brentford’s David Raya as potential alternatives. Additionally, Dean Henderson, who is currently on loan at Nottingham Forest, is expected to return but may be sold due to a disagreement over promises about being the club’s number one. With backup goalkeeper Jack Butland’s loan expiring, United’s only other experienced option is 37-year-old veteran Tom Heaton. The uncertainty in the goalkeeping department highlights the need for a bold decision by ten Hag to modernize the team’s approach.
Sabitzer’s Impact and Future at Manchester United
While Manchester United’s search for a midfielder may be on hold, the loan signing of Marcel Sabitzer from Bayern Munich has been a success. The Austrian midfielder has made an instant impact, scoring two goals against Sevilla in the Europa League quarter-finals. There are reports that United’s recruitment team, led by ten Hag, is considering a permanent deal for Sabitzer worth £18 million. This would make him United’s first Austrian player and potentially a long-term addition to the squad. However, the club may still be in the market for a midfielder if Scott McTominay or Fred were to leave in the summer.
Amad Diallo’s Future Plans
Manchester United’s young talent Amad Diallo, who is currently 20 years old, has impressed during his loan spell at Sunderland United, where he scored 12 goals and provided three assists. However, discussions between ten Hag and his staff have indicated that Diallo may not be granted a second stint at Sunderland due to the manager’s desire to see him perform at a higher level than the Championship. This has sparked interest from other clubs both in England and abroad, who are keen to secure Diallo’s services on loan for the upcoming season. United’s loan department has provided positive feedback on Diallo’s progress since his move from Atalanta in January 2021 for an initial fee of £19 million, indicating that he could have a bright future at Old Trafford.