Andre Onana continues to be a liability for Manchester United which is exactly why Ruben Amorim is contemplating making a summer change in between the sticks.
The Cameroonian has been hugely error-prone since the Portuguese’s arrival with mistakes in both the Premier League and Europa League.
With backup keeper Altay Bayindir linked with a summer exit and with Tom Heaton expected to leave upon the expiration of his contract, the head coach could do with competition for the No 1 spot.
Andriy Lunin, Gregor Kobel and Diogo Costa have all found mention in recent weeks but as The Sun put it, INEOS are keen to add to their homegrown list.
Pears on United’s radar
Which is why the Red Devils are keeping an eye on Blackburn Rover’s Aynsley Pears. United have instructed chief goalkeeping scout Tony Coton to take a closer look at the 26-year-old.
“Manchester United are looking for a home-grown keeper to join their squad next season — with Blackburn’s Aynsley Pears on the shortlist.
“Specialist scout Tony Coton has been watching the experienced Championship stopper.”
The Blackburn shot-stopper has kept 13 clean-sheets in 35 Championship games, making 105 saves with a save percentage of 75 percent. He has also saved one penalty this season.
United want Homegrown, experienced pro
United are eyeing a seasoned professional to come in and Pears fits the bill. He has a contract until 2027 with a market value of €1.2 million as per Transfermarkt.
Pears has previously plied his trade at Middlesbrough. Interestingly, Pears’ dad Stephen started his career at Old Trafford and even made five appearances for the Old Trafford side in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
James Trafford is another homegrown goalie on INEOS’ list, but he is expected to cost significantly more with Newcastle also eyeing the ex-Man City starlet.
With a striker, midfielder and wingback the transfer priorities for Amorim, it remains to be seen how much budget can be allocated for a goalkeeper.
Feature image David Rogers via Getty Images
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
