Krishnan Sreekumar
Manchester United identify two Premier League goalkeepers as potential replacements for Dean Henderson in the summer
According to Manchester Evening News, Manchester United have identified two Premier League goalkeepers who could act as potential replacements for goalkeeper Dean Henderson, if the academy product decides to secure a move elsewhere in the summer.
Henderson has been second-choice for United this season, with David de Gea firmly established as the club’s No. 1. The Spaniard seems to show no signs of slowing down, and his performances during the 2021/22 campaign put him in line to retain his place in the starting lineup.
This could force Henderson to seek an exit from the Manchester side, in search of regular football elsewhere. Newcastle United have offered an escape route to the Englishman in the upcoming transfer window, but the Red Devils would prefer a loan deal for their goalkeeper.
Henderson’s move to the Tyneside club could potentially see Karl Darlow secure a move to Old Trafford, as part of a swap deal between the two teams. Although the Newcastle shot-stopper is aware of transfer discussions, he is currently enjoying a post-season holiday.
Tom Heaton may be second-choice at Old Trafford
United are also considering a move for Watford keeper Daniel Bachmann in the coming weeks, with the Austrian impressing this term. He was one of the few shining lights for the Hornets during the season, as they suffered relegation from the Premier League after finishing 19th in the league table.
Despite Darlow and Bachmann being considered as potential backup keepers for the Red Devils, the English giants are also open to the idea of Tom Heaton becoming the deputy keeper to de Gea in the new campaign. This, however, is subject to the quality of Henderson’s replacement that they manage to sign.
Henderson’s talent has never been in doubt, as is his quality to thrive in the Premier League. The 25-year-old spent some time away on loan with Sheffield United, becoming an integral part of the team as they impressed on their return to the top flight.
The England international sees his path to becoming the first-choice for his boyhood club blocked by de Gea, and that looks unlikely to change. Henderson has seen himself only making appearances in the League Cup and FA Cup, and United did not progress far in either competition.
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It is said that the Manchester side have been a ‘stumbling block‘ amid his wish to leave the team for more minutes on the pitch. Although he is hopeful of joining Newcastle in the coming weeks, the Red Devils have delayed his exit as they would like to have his replacement lined up first.
It remains to be seen if one of Darlow or Bachmann makes the cut to move to the Theatre of Dreams in the summer. Whoever it is that eventually lands up in Manchester, they will have to make do with warming the bench and playing deputy to de Gea.
