Man Utd left RUING transfer business as summer target SHINES for new club

Cameron Smith

Updated: 18 Sept 2023 14:01 BST
3 min read

Former Manchester United target Zion Suzuki showed the Red Devils what they have missed out on with a stellar performance in Sint-Truidense VV’s 2-0 win against Mechelen on Sunday.

Article continues under the video

The Japanese goalkeeper was heavily chased by Erik ten Hag’s side during the summer transfer window, but he opted to move to Belgium on loan rather than Old Trafford.

In fact, Man Utd even agreed a fee with Urawa Red Diamonds for Suzuki, as per the Manchester Evening News, however the ‘keeper rejected the chance to join the club.

The Red Devils had identified the 20-year-old as the ideal back-up option to Andre Onana, with Dean Henderson expected to leave.

The Englishman did end up leaving, to join Crystal Palace, and Man Utd signed Altay Bayindir for €5 million on Transfer Deadline Day after missing out on Suzuki.

Ten Hag had planned to give Suzuki two years of development at the club before he would be considered ready for Premier League football, but the Japanese shot-stopper wanted regular football immediately.

Suzuki shows Man Utd what they’re missing

During STVV’s 2-0 win this weekend, their third victory of the campaign, Suzuki made seven saves (five from shots inside the box) and four high claims, had a 100% aerial duel success rate and kept his first clean sheet for the club.

Suzuki has also ousted Daniel Schmidt as STVV’s first-choice goalkeeper after settling in well in Europe.

By contrast, Man Utd ‘keeper Andre Onana has conceded 10 goals in just five Premier League games, with his only clean sheet coming on his competitive Red Devils debut - a 1-0 win against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Old Trafford.

The Cameroon international was signed for €52.5m from Inter Milan this summer as he replaced David de Gea as Man Utd’s starting number one. De Gea remains a free agent after leaving the club in June.