Manchester United still ‘keeping tabs’ on player who rejected Old Trafford last summer

Manchester United are still reportedly keeping tabs on a player who rejected a move to Old Trafford last summer amid major defensive problems.

Manchester United conceded a club-record 58 goals in the Premier League last season, and Erik ten Hag‘s side was deeply criticised for their failures.

The club signed two new goalkeepers last summer, André Onana and Altay Bayındır. The latter made just one appearance across all competitions due to Onana’s participation in the 2024 AFCON tournament.

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However, some reports have started to link Bayındır with a move away from Old Trafford this summer, just 12 months after he signed a 5-year deal with the club.

Last summer, United were also heavily linked with Japanese shot-stopper Zion Suzuki. Although he rejected the transfer, the club has continued to monitor him and remains interested in signing the 21-year-old.

The keeper, who now plays in Belgium, was considered last summer as a long-term replacement for Andre Onana, but he ultimately declined the opportunity to move to Old Trafford.

However, a recent report from Japanese outlet Sponichi has suggested that United remains interested in Suzuki this summer, having scouted the 6ft 3in goalkeeper during his pre-Olympic training camp in the USA this month.

United will face competition from other clubs, including Serie A side Genoa, who believe they can lure him this summer. The list of admirers is likely to grow, given that Suzuki was named the best goalkeeper in Belgian football last season following his move to Sint-Truiden.

  “Anyone can solve that puzzle, right? It’s too early for Man United now!” He told Het Nieuwsblad in September.

“I now know from many Japanese predecessors that STVV is an ideal first step towards Europe. Later, I want to work in the Premier League.”

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