Manchester United
Premier League • England
Man Utd remain keen to offload unwanted star but cheeky demand may scupper chances for frontline suitors
Manchester United appear open to the idea of Dean Henderson joining Nottingham Forest but want to ensure they receive all the money by January.
The 26-year-old has been with United since 2015 but featured in only 13 Premier League games. He has made 29 appearances in all competitions but always played second fiddle to David de Gea. The Spaniard’s summer exit might have opened the door to more game time but Andre Onana’s arrival has seen it firmly shut.
Therefore, the England man looks set to leave Old Trafford ahead of the new campaign.
Henderson has enjoyed several loan spells while on the United books.
He has spent time at Stockport County, Shrewsbury Town, Sheffield United, Grimsby Town and, last season, Nottingham Forest.
The Cumbrian enjoyed 18 Premier League outings for the East Midlanders in 2022-2023 until a thigh injury picked up in January ended his season.
However, he is back training with the United squad on their pre-season USA tour and is soon expected to be match fit.
Forest have been linked with a permanent move for the stopper despite doubts over his fitness.
There was talk of another loan deal but the Red Devils appear keen to get the player off their books.
That is because they wish to comply with the Premier League’s profitability and sustainability rules.
Therefore it is vital that any buying club meets their demand to stump up the cash sooner rather than later.
Swift Henderson exit to suit Man Utd
There is no question that Henderson remains a talented keeper. He would have played more games for the north-west giants had he not been behind De Gea.
There is a sense that his career has stagnated at the Theatre of Dreams. And a summer exit seems the best for all parties concerned.
But Manchester United are set to demand that the money is paid to them by the January transfer window, Per MEN.
Forest were keen for a loan deal where they were obliged to make it permanent after he had played 30 games.
However, that would not suit United as that number would not be reached by the New Year.
Henderson is open to the idea of moving to the City Ground on a permanent basis.
But, as ever, finances are key to the deal being completed before the start of next season.
Erik ten Hag is busy shaping his squad as the big kick-off approaches.
And, following a pre-season loss to Real Madrid, the Dutchman admitted that it is tough for any player trying to secure game time for the club.
“We have a group of keepers and, as everyone else, you have to fight for your position,” he told the club’s website. “I think that’s normal when you’re at United.
“And he (Henderson) is a good goalie, he has to fight and we have to see when he can return to team training.”
United have already sold one player to Forest as Anthony Elanga joined Steve Cooper’s side earlier this week.
Henderson might make it a double United capture for Cooper if the clubs can work out the finances.
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