“Top class” United star’s escape from Old Trafford under threat despite agreeing to move – Fabrizio Romano

Manchester United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir’s move to Besiktas this summer hinges on one key factor, according to Fabrizio Romano. Unsafe Pair of Hands Bayindir, 28, arrived at Old Trafford from Fenerbahçe for £4.3 million in the summer of 2023. The Türkiye international was signed to be the No. 2 to Andre Onana, signed in the same window from Inter Milan for £47.2m to replace long-term stalwart David De Gea. Despite the 6’6 shot-stopper described as “top class” by Bruno Fernandes,  and Onana forging a reputation as one of Europe’s best goalkeepers in Italy, neither has proved to be a successful signing. Both have committed a series of costly mistakes when starting, often destabilising the defence they are designed to protect. This led to the decision last summer to sign Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp, even with the 23-year-old Belgian having only one season of first-team experience under his belt. Lammens’ capture led to Onana joining Trabzonspor on loan as then-head coach Ruben Amorim preferred Bayindir. The Turkish side are hoping to strike a permanent deal for the Cameroon international this summer. But Bayindir’s performance in Onana’s stead were as shaky, with Lammens quickly assuming the starting berth and proving transformative between the sticks. The Zottegem native is already one of United’s best signings in years. Bayindir to Besiktas? Both the player and club are open to Bayindir’s departure this summer, with a return to Türkiye the most likely destination. Interestingly, Trabzonspor have been linked with a move, though Super Lig giant Besiktas are understood to be the strongest suitor. A report relayed by The Peoples Person revealed the Black Eagles have agreed personal terms with Bayindir, despite his previous allegiance with bitter rivals Fenerbahçe. However, Besiktas have parted ways with their manager, Sergen Yalçın, by mutual agreement after a disappointing campaign at the Tüpraş Stadium. Italian transfer expert Romano claims this will affect the pursuit of Bayindir as the new manager will need to approve the 6’6 United star as a target. 🚨 Altay Bayindir can leave Manchester United in the summer. Besiktas remain interested but deal depends on new manager after recent change of coach. pic.twitter.com/MLZrr3HrLH — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 19, 2026 Tweet: “Altay Bayindir can leave Manchester United in the summer. Besiktas remain interested but deal depends on new manager after recent change of coach.” Final Thoughts Romano confirms Besiktas “remain interested” in Bayindir, which offers hope a deal will still be pursued once their new chief is in place. With United’s summer war chest set to be directed primarily towards the midfield, there will be little left over for a new goalkeeper. Bayindir’s sale will fund his replacement – and while a new No. 2 is not the type of signing that gets fans’ heart rates going, the frightening prospect of the Turkish ‘keeper starting for United again should. Featured image Mike Hewitt via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Darragh Fox Darragh is an editor for The Peoples Person who spent three years learning about the Cold War at the University of Sheffield slowly realising football was by far the most interesting thing to write about. Amad’s first touch should be officially recognised as the eighth wonder of the world.