Manchester United’s hopes of signing Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin have received a major boost after Newcastle’s pursuit of him suffered a major setback.
United could sign a goalkeeper this summer
United’s transfer efforts so far this window have revolved around bolstering their attacking department after a goal-shy 2024/25 campaign.
The Red Devils have secured the signings of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Brentford respectively. Work is also currently ongoing to try and get a deal for a top-class striker over the line, with Ollie Watkins and Benjamin Sesko the leading names on their list.
If United manage to sell well, they could then turn their attention to strengthening other areas of the pitch including midfielder and goalkeeper.
There remains a chance that the club’s goalkeeping department could be subjected to a radical overhaul amidst uncertainty over the futures of Andre Onana and his understudy, Altay Bayindir. The two shot-stoppers made numerous high-profile mistakes that dearly cost United in games last term, and there is an acceptance that neither represents a long-term solution between the sticks.
United continue to be linked to several goalkeepers including Gianluigi Donnarumma (Paris Saint-Germain), Emi Martinez (Aston Villa), John Victor (Botafogo) and of course, Lunin.
United eyeing Lunin
A previous report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United were keeping tabs on Lunin as a potential replacement for Onana.
During his time at Real Madrid, Lunin has primarily served as Thibaut Courtois’ deputy, but he has won a La Liga and two Champions League titles.
The Ukrainian made 14 appearances across all competitions last term, keeping six clean sheets in that period.
Last month, it was claimed that Lunin is not particularly keen on parting ways with Madrid unless it’s for a switch to a top European side, where he’d be guaranteed an undisputed starter role.
In addition to United, Newcastle have also been mentioned as an interested party in Lunin.
Newcastle’s loan offer for Lunin rebfuffed by Madrid
According to CaughtOffside, Newcastle recently tabled a loan bid for Lunin, but this was swiftly knocked back by Madrid.
The news outlet reveals, “Newcastle United’s search for a new goalkeeper has hit a stumbling block after their €3 million loan offer for Real Madrid shot-stopper Andriy Lunin was swiftly turned down by the Spanish club.”
“Sources close to the agent industry have informed CaughtOffside that the La Liga giants have no intention of allowing the Ukrainian international to leave this summer, especially under the terms proposed.”
“Real Madrid’s response was unequivocal, the 26-year-old is not for sale or loan at this moment in time.”
CaughtOffside note that Madrid view Lunin as a key part of their plans. Amidst all this, United are believed to be “waiting in the shadows” in case an opportunity to swoop in for the 26-year-old presents itself.
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
