Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag plans to step up his attack in the summer with the arrival of a midfielder and defender in the pipeline.
But many fans will argue that having a goalkeeper is just as important, if not more important, than the areas to strengthen.
United’s long-term shot-stopper David de Gea currently leads the Golden Glove contest for most clean sheets and has been the undisputed starter under the current manager.
But the former Ajax manager prefers to see his goalkeeper lying comfortably with the ball at his feet and have the opportunity to initiate radical action as he commands in the penalty area.
Despite his shot-stopping capabilities, the aforementioned qualities are all missing from the Spaniard’s game and as a result United continue to hunt for a new goalkeeper.
The Spain international is set to agree a new long-term deal with the club on heavily reduced terms, but that doesn’t guarantee he’ll continue to start under Ten Hag.
Among the goalkeepers linked with a move to Old Trafford is David Raya of Brentford, who has enjoyed a superb season with the Bees, his move from behind being a highlight of the season.
Raya’s current contract with the London side expires in 2024 and despite Brentford’s best efforts, the 27-year-old has so far turned down two contract extensions and it looks increasingly likely that he will leave this summer .
United, Tottenham and Chelsea have been linked with the No.1 at Brentford and he has spoken of a potential move to one of the big clubs.
“Obviously it’s nice to hear that the clubs are after you and asking for you and looking for you,” Raya told the Yours, Mine, Away! Podcast (via Football London).
“These clubs are the biggest in the world and every player wants to play for these clubs. I have another year and I don’t know what will happen in the summer.
“I’ve said before that I had two contracts which I turned down because they weren’t the offers I was looking for.
“I want to push myself to the top level of the Champions League and the Europa League and win those trophies. I want to experience it and I’m at that stage of my football career.”
The Spaniard has made clear he wants to play in the biggest competitions such as the Champions League and Europa League, and United could offer him that opportunity if Ten Hag believes he is the man capable of wearing the number 1 shirt.
