Manchester United’s quest for a new goalkeeper continues as they solve contract uncertainties with David de Gea.
However, recently, Feyenoord’s Justin Bijlow has emerged as a potential target for manager Erik ten Hag, according to Dutch news outlet 1908.
The 25-year-old has reportedly become a concrete option for the Red Devils as negotiations to acquire Inter Milan’s Andre Onana prove to be more challenging than anticipated.
De Gea has officially become a free agent, as he failed to reach an agreement on a new contract with United despite months of negotiations.
While the club intends to hold face-to-face discussions with the long-serving goalkeeper, it seems apparent that if he stays, he would serve as a backup option for the upcoming season due to manager Erik ten Hag’s pursuit of Onana.
Ten Hag is seeking a modern-style goalkeeper who can contribute to building play from the back and is comfortable taking on a sweeper-keeper role when necessary. As a result, de Gea is unlikely to be the first-choice goalkeeper for the upcoming season.
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Recent reports indicate that negotiations between Man United and Inter are progressing rapidly. However, another player has emerged as a potential target for the Red Devils.
Feyenoord’s Justin Bijlow has caught the attention with his impressive performances, earning him a spot in the Netherlands national team as their first-choice goalkeeper in the UEFA Nations League in June.
Bijlow has been a regular starter for Feyenoord and played a significant role in their Eredivisie title triumph, accumulating 119 appearances and 45 clean sheets. Despite facing some injuries during the 2022/23 season, he still managed to keep 12 clean sheets in 25 league starts.
Feyenoord are keen to retain their talented homegrown star, whose contract runs until 2025, and is working to secure him with a new deal. However, United’s interest in Bijlow could thwart Feyenoord’s efforts.
The outcome of the ongoing negotiations for Onana’s transfer will play a significant role in Bijlow’s potential move. If United fails to secure Onana’s transfer from Inter, the chances of Bijlow making a significant career leap will increase.
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Bijlow’s market value is estimated at €15 million, which is three times less than the reported fee United would have to pay Inter for Onana.
He could serve as a backup option to Onana or even as a backup to De Gea if the Spaniard refuses to accept a backup role at the club. Ten Hag may opt to bring in two new goalkeepers this summer and have them compete for the starting position.
Ultimately, the situation hinges on David de Gea and his decision regarding his role at Man United.
