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One year on from a massive revamp in goal, Manchester United are still looking at improving their options with a Championship goalie now in their sights.
Erik ten Hag took the huge call to allow club legend David de Gea to leave after a 12-year spell due to his weakness with the ball at his feet.
In came Andre Onana, a goalkeeper the manager had worked with in Ajax, while a backup shot-stopper, in the form of Altay Bayindir, was also signed to add competition for places.
The Cameroonian did not have the best of starts but eventually got into a groove and cemented his place as the undisputed No 1.
United want a backup keeper
His passing is usually spot on and while he has come up with a string of top-class saves, his shot-stopping technique sometimes leaves a lot to be desired as seen from the goal conceded against FC Twente.
As for the Turk, he has managed only two appearances in as many seasons with his latest coming in the Carabao Cup tie against Barnsley.
The former Fenerbahce star, who is a full Turkish international, wants to play a lot more but coaching staff do not think he is ready to be the starting goalie at at club like United.
That is why The Sun have now reported that current goalkeeper scout at the club, Tony Coton is searching for a potential backup keeper and he has his eyes on Sunderland’s Anthony Patterson.
The 24-year-old has kept four clean sheets in six games this season and is ready for the next step but so far, no Premier League clubs have come in for him.
The ambitious shot-stopper wants to be a No 1 for a top-flight club but he realises that a backup role might be the best option of moving up the ladder at the moment.
Apart from the Red Devils, Crystal Palace and even Liverpool are looking at the England U21 international as a backup to their current No 1s and the Black Cats are open to moving him on should they receive a bid in the region of £20 million.
Anthony Patterson could be their go-to guy
“MANCHESTER UNITED are watching Sunderland keeper Anthony Patterson as they look for a new No 2.The Red Devils want a young shot-stopper to understudy Andre Onana, and 24-year-old Patterson is firmly in their sights.
“Former goalie Tony Coton, now United’s keeper scout, is checking out the Black Cats star as he fits the bill in every way. Coach Erik ten Hag is firmly behind Onana as his first choice so Altay Bayindir, 26, has hardly had a chance and may move.
“Patterson has been linked with moves in the past but is yet to get the Premier League call and the England Under-21 cap may have to initially settle for being a reserve at a top-flight club.”
The report also adds that Sunderland are unlikely to agree to any sale this season with promotion firmly in their sights but a deal could be agreed next summer and they are likely to accept less than £20 million.
Feature image Ben Roberts Photo via Getty Images
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