Man Utd to MISS OUT on top transfer target due to FFP

FT Desk

• Updated: 2 Jul 2023 08:19 BST
• 3 min read

The list of candidates Man Utd possess to replace David de Gea is set to become slimmer as one top goalkeeper slips through the club's grasp.

De Gea is now out of contract at Old Trafford and has not committed to a new deal, after spending 12 seasons as the Red Devils' No. 1.

United therefore find themselves in uncharted territory as they seek an alternative to the Spain shot-stopper, one of their most reliable performers over that same turbulent period.

Inter Milan star Andre Onana had emerged as one of the favourites to supplant De Gea between the posts after a strong season for Inter.

The Cameroon international led his side to within a whisker of the Champions League title, missing out in the final only to Rodri's solitary strike as Man City pipped the Nerazzurri to the crown.

But while Onana is highly rated at Old Trafford, his transfer is anything but straightforward.

According to the Mirror, signing £60 million midfielder Mason Mount has left a significant dent in the clubs summer funds, with United also keen to reinforce in defence and up front.

Not only that, but spending another £60m - the fee Inter are demanding in order to release their star goalkeeper - would also leave the Reds foul of FFP restrictions.

Who else are United looking at?

While selling back-up keeper Dean Henderson would make further funds available, United have now refocused their attentions on more economical alternatives.

At the top of that list are two names: Feyenoord’s Justin Bijlow and Eintracht Frankfurt’s Kevin Trapp, both of whom would cost significantly less than Onana.

Bijlow would be available for around £20m while Trapp, formerly of Paris Saint-Germain, could go for £10m.

There is also a chance that United could open talks with De Gea over a new contract, although any negotiations will have to wait until the goalkeeper's wedding celebrations at the start of July.