After four Premier League games, things seem to be looking up for Manchester United. Two back-to-back wins have offset the losses suffered in the opening two encounters.
And now with the imminent arrival of right-winger Antony from Ajax, Erik ten Hag is edging closer to having his desired squad. With just a couple of days left, there are still positions United need to strengthen in.
One of the key areas where the club is looking for reinforcements is the goalkeeping department. Following the loan departure of Dean Henderson to Nottingham Forest, United have been left with only two senior keepers — David de Gea and Tom Heaton.
Manchester United are now pushing to make Martin Dubravka their next signing: Newcastle expected to answer today after official loan bid submitted with £5m buy option included. 🚨🔴 #MUFC
Dubravka agreed personal terms – he has asked NUFC board to leave as he dreams of Man Utd. pic.twitter.com/Tb973AgKej
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 29, 2022
And it is safe to say that De Gea’s long-term future as United’s No 1 is in danger. While his shot-stopping skills were never in doubt, it is his ability with the ball and his penchant for not leaving the line which has let him down this season.
Ten Hag is a big advocate of playing out from the back and he wants his keeper to be good with the ball and wants him to initiate attacks while also being able to come out of his line to play as sweeper-keeper so that the team can maintain a high line.
And De Gea is not exactly known for these attributes and so far, has conceded seven times in four games, which includes two disastrous mistakes against Brentford.
Dubravka the next man in
United had prepared a shortlist of five shot-stoppers with the likes of Yann Sommer, Tim Krul, Daniel Bachmann, Odysseas Vlachodimos and Kevin Trapp.
Trapp turned down the chance to move to Old Trafford and now the Red Devils are actively pursuing Martin Dubravka of Newcastle United. Personal terms have already been agreed with the Slovak and he wants to come to United.
Renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano in his exclusive Caught Offside column revealed that United have already lodged a bid for the Slovakian international and the Magpies are likely to discuss the offer today.
“Manchester United have submitted an official bid during the weekend: loan with £5m buy option, Newcastle want permanent deal so it will be discussed again on Monday,” the Italian wrote.
Dubravka recently lost his place to Nick Pope and wants a new challenge and feels he can push United’s Spanish keeper all the way. A loan arrangement makes sense with Henderson impressing at Forest.
According to the Italian, Dubravka might be the last bit of action United embark on for this transfer window unless some major outgoings happen in the last few days. A forward might become of interest in the case Cristiano Ronaldo decides to leave the club.
