When Erik ten Hag took over the reins at Manchester United after last season’s horror show, the rebuilding job ahead of him was a matter of great concern.
However, in a summer transfer window, quite a few holes in the team, particularly in defense and midfield, have been plugged for the time being.
As of now, the club’s top priorities in January are bringing in a substitute right-back to ease the burden on Diogo Dalot and recruiting an elite centre-forward to fill the void left by Cristiano Ronaldo’s acrimonious departure.
Another issue that has been on the manager’s mind is the situation with United’s No 1 David de Gea. His contract expires next summer.
United goalkeeper search
For now, the coach has confirmed that the club will activate the one-year extension option for all players whose contracts expire next season.
But the Dutchman does not seem to be the biggest fan of the Spaniard. While De Gea’s shot-stopping ability has been praised by the coach, his weakness with the ball at his feet and coming off his line has seen him as replaceable.
And despite his decade of service, United are said to be on the hunt for a new No. 1, someone who is more in line with the new manager’s philosophy.
Benfica is getting close to a new deal for Odisseas Vlachodimos, imminent and to be completed in the next few days as first called by @abolapt. ???????????????? #transfers
Understanding that the new deal will be valid until June 2027, Vlachodimos prepared to accept after being close to Ajax last summer. pic.twitter.com/9tBA4RCUas
– Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 14, 2022
Quite a few names have been around since the summer and one of them who has stood out with his displays for his club is Odysseas Vlachodimos.
The Greek goalkeeper has been a revelation for Benfica this season, keeping eight clean sheets in 13 league games and 13 overall this season.
Such has been the performance of the Greek international with As Águias that substitute goalkeeper Helton has not played a single game this season.
His importance for the Portuguese giants is reflected in the fact that he is the second foreigner with the most appearances for the team (195) after the Belgian Michel Preud’homme (199).
Vlachodimos agrees contract extension
According to Record, “Benfica and Odysseas Vlachodimos have already reached an agreement for the renewal of the contract.”
“At this point, all that remains is to sign the document that will keep the goalkeeper linked to the Reds until 2027. The current contract expires in 2024.”
He was also a target for Leicester City in the summer as they wanted to replace Kasper Schmeichel, while Ajax were also interested at one point in the summer.
He is currently valued at €16m according to Transfermarkt, but the latest contract will ensure his price is at least doubled.
That will be a huge blow to United’s summer aspirations and it remains to be seen if United continue their search for the Greek goalkeeper.
