Urawa Reds goalkeeper Zion Suzuki has revealed that Manchester United presented an offer to sign him in the summer transfer window.
The Red Devils had an aim to secure Andre Onana as their main goalkeeper for this summer, but they also had an interest in Suzuki as a backup goalkeeper.
Discussions took place with Suzuki’s representatives, but the Japanese international was not interested in the move because he prioritized the guarantee of consistent playing time in the first team.
Consequently, instead of joining United, he opted to make a move to the Belgian Pro League by signing with Sint-Truidense VV. The 21-year-old’s transfer is on a season-long loan, without an option to make it permanent.
In an interview with Voetbal Belgie, Suzuki expressed his desire to compete in the Premier League and confirmed that Man United had shown interest in him during the summer transfer window.
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The 21-year-old also mentioned his strong desire to have consistent playing time, regardless of the level of competition. He left open the possibility of a potential move to the English Premier League in the years ahead.
“My dream is to play in the English Premier League. It is true that I have received an offer from Manchester United, but United have acquired Onana this season, so I want to play at a level where I can play.”
“Even if I can’t go there now, I definitely want to go there in a few years. To make progress step by step, I decided to move to Belgium.”
During the summer, United underwent significant changes in their goalkeeper department. David de Gea, who had been with the club for 12 years, departed on a free transfer.
Jack Butland, previously on loan from Crystal Palace, chose to join Rangers after his contract with the Eagles expired on June 30. Additionally, Dean Henderson decided to leave Old Trafford and signed with Crystal Palace.
United’s current goalkeeper lineup features Andre Onana as the first choice and Altay Bayindir as the second choice, following their transfers from Inter and Fenerbahce, respectively.
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Both of these players are known for their proficiency in playing with the ball at their feet. It’s possible that United will seek to acquire another modern-style goalkeeper in the near future.
Suzuki possesses huge potential and could very well find himself at another Premier League club in the upcoming years. This would not come as a surprise to the fans.
