Manchester United’s goalkeeping department could be set for another shake-up this summer, with the future of current second-choice shot-stopper Altay Bayindir hanging in the balance.
The 27-year-old has seen his most significant playing time since arriving at Old Trafford this season, featuring in nine matches under manager Ruben Amorim, including his Europa League and Premier League debuts.
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However, despite a standout FA Cup performance against Arsenal, Bayindir has struggled to consistently impress, with errors creeping into his game in both league and Carabao Cup fixtures.
The Turkish international reportedly harbors ambitions of becoming his country’s starting goalkeeper at next year’s World Cup, a goal that necessitates regular first-team football. With Andre Onana firmly established as United’s preferred number one, Bayindir is understood to be open to a return to his native Turkey in search of consistent minutes.
Previously linked with a move to Galatasaray, reports from Turkish outlet POSTA now indicate that Besiktas have also entered the fray for the former Fenerbahce player’s signature.
Interestingly, former Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has reportedly given his approval to Besiktas’ pursuit of Bayindir. The Istanbul-based club have reportedly tabled an initial offer of €3 million to Manchester United for the Turkish international.
However, the 20-time English league champions are believed to be holding out for a transfer fee of at least €6 million for the goalkeeper they signed for €5 million in 2023.
Besiktas are also said to be exploring the possibility of a loan deal that includes an option to buy Bayindir for the €6 million valuation. However, with INEOS potentially prioritizing immediate funds, the outcome of Bayindir’s future remains uncertain.
Turkish reports highlight Besiktas’ urgency in the goalkeeping department.
Beşiktaş have decided not to continue with Ersin Destanoğlu and have asked for Altay Bayındır from Manchester United.
Beşiktaş offered 3 million euros for his transfer fee, while the English team wanted 6 million euros.
The black and white team’s request for a rental with a purchase option is also on the table. The 27-year-old goalkeeper’s market value appears to be 10 million euros.
Adding further complexity to Manchester United’s goalkeeping situation is the fact that Andre Onana’s future is also not entirely secure.
Reports suggest that manager Ruben Amorim has not been entirely satisfied with the Cameroonian’s performances, leading to links with a potential move to Saudi Arabia. Simultaneously, Manchester United have been credited with interest in several other goalkeepers.
Should Onana depart Old Trafford, Bayindir’s prospects of securing regular first-team action at United would undoubtedly increase.
Furthermore, third-choice goalkeeper Tom Heaton’s contract is nearing its expiry. While the club are reportedly attempting to negotiate a one-year extension, there remains a possibility that Heaton could also leave, potentially further thinning United’s goalkeeping ranks.
The summer transfer window promises to be a period of significant activity and potential change within Manchester United’s goalkeeping department.
