Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is seemingly interested in bringing in a new goalkeeper after the presumed loan departure of Dean Henderson to Nottingham Forest this summer. Watford goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann has been linked to the club according to James Robson of Goal.
Following the departure of Lee Grant at the end of he season, other than David De Gea, United have just Tom Heaton in the experienced ranks with just youth goalkeepers remaining at the club. Robson suggests that Bachmann, 27, could be bought.
It has been suggested that because of Watford’s relegation to the Championship last season, the Austrian international could be available for just £4 million, which is considered a bargain in this day and age for a player. He could establish himself as the cup goalkeeper, taking on Heaton.
Henderson’s departure is said to be a season-long loan move so Ten Hag can take a look at him in the Premier League to make a decision about his future at the club, however, Forest did want an option to purchase him – although it looks like they won’t get that.
United have been stocked in the goalkeeper ranks of late but with Grant’s departure and Henderson’s impending departure, added to the lack of experience in the youth ranks – which would be a big gamble, purchasing another goalkeeper would be the best option for United.
Henderson is highly-rated but last season, his lack of appearances has left many wondering if he has what it takes to take on De Gea for the number one shirt. During the previous season, where United fared a little better, his performances were largely impressive and he looked good.
Henderson could quickly reestablish himself with a season away on loan, like it did with his two-year stint at Sheffield United when he helped them gain promotion to the Premier League, playing in the top-flight the following season and doing well, leading to him getting chances at United in 2020/21.
If Bachmann arrives at the Old Trafford club this summer, with Heaton currently 36, it could well be that De Gea, Bachmann and Henderson could well be the three goalkeepers vying for a place at the start of the 2023/24 season, unless Heaton’s option of a third year is applied.
I am sure there will changes to United this summer, not just in terms of players being bought and sold, but different squads for different competitions with United seemingly sticking with De Gea for most competitions last season, which could well change – amongst other things.
Written by John Walker
