Manchester United

Manchester United

Premier League • England

Man Utd transfer news: Daniel Bachmann deal fails as Ten Hag sets out goalkeeper signing criteria

Daniel Bachmann, Chelsea v Watford May 2022

Manchester United have reportedly moved on from trying to sign Watford goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann but still want a new back-up stopper.

The Red Devils have urgent need for new signings all across the pitch, with goalkeeper a recently-emerging problem. First-choice stopper David de Gea has shaken off any doubt over his form with last season’s showing.

But the Spaniard’s performances have subsequently forced current deputy Dean Henderson to take action over his future. Indeed, he has agreed a season-long loan move to Nottingham Forest.

Lee Grant has retired and while Tom Heaton remains at Man Utd, new manager Erik ten Hag wants a new back-up option.

Watford’s 27-year-old Austrian Bachmann has been of interest to the Old Trafford club.

Although, the Daily Mail now reports that United have moved on from attempting to sign the 13-cap international.

The relegated Hornets understandably want a fee for Bachmann given he has two years left on his contract.

Previous reports have put that figure at between £2million and £4million. Still, Man Utd are unwilling to pay what Watford want for their stopper.

Bachmann could well continue as Watford’s first-choice goalkeeper next season as they chase an immediate Premier League return. He played 12 top-flight games last term, sharing game time with Ben Foster.

Foster has now left Vicarage Road, with Rob Elliot and Pontus Dahlberg further options for Watford.

For United, though, the Daily Mail claims that Ten Hag wants a ‘cheap’ and ‘experienced’ third-choice stopper.

Indeed, 36-year-old Heaton, who has made 116 Premier League career appearances, could become De Gea’s new deputy.

Man Utd in goalkeeper dilemma after Bachmann

United are in something of a dilemma over their goalkeeper situation.

The fact that Forest do not have an option to buy Henderson – which was an initial focus of the talks – suggests that United do think he has a long-term future at Old Trafford.

De Gea’s contract expires in 2023 but the club have a one-year extension option on him. Still, he could well sign a new deal if he replicates last season’s form next term.

And there is only so long that Henderson would be willing to wait for regular game time if De Gea keeps his place.

Heaton, meanwhile, is not a long-term option at 36. Like De Gea, his deal could run until the summer of 2024.

Man Utd therefore need another goalkeeper signing. But they cannot truly predict the fortunes of those currently in their squad, which would massively help their decision-making process.