The latest Manchester United goalkeeper target has had his price revealed, as he could be the perfect option if Rúben Amorim wants a new shotstopper
With just three pre-season fixtures left before the start of the Premier League season, Manchester United still don’t have a clear starting goalkeeper, due to the injury to Andre Onana before the Leeds United match.
Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton have both played in the absence of Onana, but neither would be considered a starting option if the Cameroonian were fully fit, meaning Rúben Amorim may want a more secure pair of hands.
The only other option already at the club would be young Dermot Mee, who has yet to make his senior debut for the club, but has played in the EFL Trophy – a competition where Premier League under-21 sides take on teams in League One and League Two.
Elyh Harrison and Radek Vitek have both moved on loan to clubs in the EFL, Shrewsbury Town and Bristol City, respectively, so they can’t be considered as an Onana alternative.
Therefore, a new goalkeeper seems almost a certainty, but a cheaper option would be the focus for United as they have already spent big on Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.
Pope’s price tag revealed
It was recently announced that Nick Pope could emerge as a surprise option for Jason Wilcox and the recruitment team, with it looking like Aaron Ramsdale is moving to Newcastle United.
Pope wants to remain a Premier League starter, so a move to United could be his best option, as a starting spot is guaranteed for at least the opening game, and he will keep it if he impresses.
Football Insider have reported that it would take between £10-15 million to sign Pope, money that the Red Devils have received in sell-on clauses this summer from Anthony Elanga, Alvaro Carreras and others.
Pope could be the perfect option for Amorim, as his low fee wouldn’t restrict United from making other transfers this summer, and he could compete with Onana for game time, as a capable first-team goalkeeper.
Pope could stay at the club long term
In a similar vein to the signings of Jonny Evans and Heaton, Pope won’t be considered a first-team option for long, as he is already 33 years old.
However, this could be perfect for United because he could stick around until one of Vitek or Harrison is ready to make an impact on the first team, whether that’s starting or as the backup.
But even after his playing days, Pope could enter a staff role like Evans has this summer. While the Englishman doesn’t have any United ties, his experience in the top flight could be valuable in a coaching or mentoring role.
In a time of mass overhaul at the club, a signing like Pope could be good to help the younger players settle into the first team, as his experience in English football is unlike almost any other goalkeeper on the market.
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