Not Kobel or Verbruggen – Man United ready to make sensational move for David De Gea’s replacement
They will have competition from Chelsea, who are also looking for a new goalkeeper.
Manchester United may be poised to make a definite statement regarding their goalkeeping choices for next season, with David De Gea’s future at the club seriously jeopardized.
De Gea’s contract at Manchester United is set to expire in the summer, and the club and player are allegedly no closer to agreeing on a new term. Manchester United has offered the Spaniard a new contract with reduced terms as one of the club’s biggest earners.
This season, the 32-year-old has been under great scrutiny, with his ability to move the ball out from the back being called into doubt. The recent goal he gave up against West Ham, which came from a weak Said Benrahma shot, has also aggravated matters.
Erik ten Hag, according to The Independent(opens in new tab), wants to keep De Gea for next season but wants some strong competition for the No.1 spot.
However, that competition has been discovered, with the same report claiming that Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel is being considered. The 25-year-old is at ease with the ball at his feet and has made an impression since joining the German club in 2021.
Switzerland international Kobel has a contract with Dortmund until 2026, which means he will cost a lot of money if he leaves.
With Chelsea also looking for a new shot-stopper and the Stamford Bridge management unsatisfied with either Edouard Mendy or Kepa Arrizabalaga, a transfer war for Kobel could break out this summer.
Kobel has played 25 games in the Bundesliga this season, surrendering 30 goals but also keeping 10 clean sheets, and he would fit very nicely with the style of play Erik ten Hag is attempting to install at Old Trafford.
Borussia Dortmund is fighting Bayern Munich at the top of the Bundesliga standings, and the Swiss goalkeeper is considered as a key factor in their title push.
