Manchester United enjoyed a brilliant summer transfer window under new manager Erik ten Hag with five permanent players arriving and filling multiple gaps in the squad.
Initially, it was expected to be a quiet January window with a backup right-back the only possible addition after the manager pointed out the lack of an alternative to Diogo Dalot.
But after the departure of last season’s top scorer Cristiano Ronaldo, the need for a striker became apparent as the Red Devils are currently the second lowest scorers in the top half of the Premier League.
United Eye substitute goalkeeper
But with finances stretched due to summer splurge and the club’s imminent sale, it emerged that the club could only facilitate loan deals in the winter window.
As the club desperately tried to find the right option, news emerged that substitute goalkeeper Martin Dubravka, who had arrived on loan from Newcastle United, was recalled a few days ago.
Manchester United have considered removing Dean Henderson from his loan at Nottingham Forest, but it is believed that the goalkeeper is best left there, where he plays regularly. [@lauriewhitwell] #MUFC pic.twitter.com/RDAFMc12ka
— United Update (@UnitedsUpdate) January 4, 2023
That meant that a substitute goalkeeper suddenly became all-important. As previously reported on The Peoples Person, United have started talks with Crystal Palace about a move for stopper Jack Butland.
The England international has six months left on his current contract with the Eagles and has the option to extend his contract for a further year.
According to The Athletic, “Palace could trigger Butland’s extension and then allow a loan.” The report also mentioned that “Butland was under consideration at United last summer before Dubravka joined.”
Henderson’s retirement was also an option
Interestingly, the outlet also revealed that there were discussions about the retirement of United goalkeeper Dean Henderson, who is on loan at Nottingham Forest.
“But it is believed that it is better for the 25-year-old to stay at the City Ground, where he plays regularly,” he added.
It’s important to remember that Henderson had given a rather inflammatory interview after sealing his temporary move to Forest, where he attacked the club for “criminal” behaviour.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had promised him the number 1 shirt, but David de Gea’s sublime form and COVID-19 meant he hardly played last season.
Many had speculated that it could lead to a permanent departure next season, but Ten Hag has refused to elaborate on Henderson’s future thus far.
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