Manchester United are set for another reshuffle between the posts this summer, with Altay Bayindir widely expected to leave the club in search of regular football.
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that United’s current plan is for the Turkish international goalkeeper to depart, clearing the way for fresh recruitment in the position.
Bayindir has never truly nailed down a consistent role at Old Trafford since joining, and at 28 years old, regular first-team football has to be the priority for his career.
Spending another campaign limited to cup appearances would do little for his development or his confidence at this stage of his career.
United have moved quickly to bring some stability to the department, with Tom Heaton signing a new one-year contract to remain at the club as third-choice goalkeeper.
The club confirmed the extension officially, with Heaton saying he was delighted to stay and continue contributing at Old Trafford.
Heaton’s value goes well beyond what he offers on matchdays, with United reportedly valuing his experience and professionalism both in training and behind the scenes.
His homegrown status also makes him a practical squad asset across a long and demanding domestic and European season.
With Bayindir heading for the exit and Heaton retained, United’s focus now turns to sourcing a reliable second-choice goalkeeper capable of stepping up when required.
Former United academy player Sam Johnstone has already been mentioned as one option, with The Sun reporting that the Wolves goalkeeper is being considered for a potential move back to Manchester.
Johnstone has substantial Premier League experience and his familiarity with the club could make any potential transfer negotiations smoother than bringing in an unknown quantity.
The Wolves stopper has reportedly fallen down the pecking order, which could make him available at a realistic price point this summer window.
A move for Johnstone would carry a clear logic given his background, his quality and his likely acceptance of a squad role behind the first-choice goalkeeper.
United appear to be handling the situation in a measured and considered way, balancing the needs of the departing player with the long-term stability of the goalkeeping unit.
The priority remains finding a dependable backup who understands the expectations of the role while offering genuine quality when called upon during a busy fixture schedule.
