Manchester United goalkeepers set for moves, with medicals booked
Manchester United goalkeepers Radek Vitek and Altay Bayindir are reportedly set to undergo medical examinations as they prepare for potential moves. Vitek is nearing a permanent transfer to Middlesbrough, while Bayindir is expected to join Celta Vigo on loan.
Vitek’s transfer to Middlesbrough is described as a permanent deal. Reports indicate that United will include a buy-back clause and a sell-on clause in the agreement. Middlesbrough is expected to pay an initial fee for the player, who impressed during a loan spell at Bristol City last season. Vitek was named Bristol City’s Player of the Year, Players’ Player of the Year, and Young Player of the Year after recording 12 clean sheets in 41 league appearances.
The 22-year-old Vitek has featured in United’s pre-season matches, playing against Rosenborg and Wrexham, keeping a clean sheet in both appearances. His performances at Bristol City meant that a decision regarding his long-term future was anticipated this summer. He reportedly sought regular playing time, and the move to Middlesbrough could offer him the chance to become a number one goalkeeper at a club aiming for promotion to the Premier League.
Goalkeeper Departures and Squad Changes
United has been active in their goalkeeping department. Karl Darlow, 35, was signed on a free transfer after his contract with Leeds United expired, in anticipation of changes. Bayindir, a Turkish international, has attracted interest from Celta Vigo and other clubs. He has found first-team opportunities limited at United.
Bayindir is expected to join Celta Vigo on loan for the season. The Liga side may have the option to make the move permanent, according to reports. These potential departures follow a period of squad adjustments for Manchester United, with several players moving on.
Other players who have departed include Rasmus Hojlund, who joined Napoli after a loan spell, and Casemiro, Tyrell Malacia, and Jadon Sancho, whose contracts expired. The club also recently signed Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa, after triggering a release clause in his contract.
Middlesbrough’s Transfer Activity
Middlesbrough, last season’s beaten play-off finalists, have been notably active in the transfer market. The acquisition of Vitek is seen as a significant move for the Teessiders, who are also reportedly pursuing Tottenham Hotspur defender Ashley Phillips. Middlesbrough has also completed deals for USA international duo Max Arfsten and Sebastian Berhalter, and Spurs striker Will Lankshear.
Vitek has been Middlesbrough’s primary goalkeeping target, with the club aiming to bring in another option alongside Sol Brynn. He is reportedly earmarked as the club’s new number one goalkeeper. Middlesbrough had previously been linked with other goalkeepers this summer, including former loanee Mark Travers and Kayne van Oevelen.
In addition to incoming transfers, Middlesbrough is also managing departures from their squad. Delano Burgzorg, who was on loan at Bristol City last season, is reportedly set to join Preston North End. Furthermore, forward Kaly Sene is reportedly lined up for a return to Switzerland, with Young Boys agreeing to a deal.
Michael Carrick, the Manchester United head coach, previously managed Middlesbrough from 2022 to 2025.
Manchester United is also reportedly keen to sign a new left-back, with Luke Shaw being the only recognized player in that position in the first-team squad. Lewis Hall is a target, but a deal for the Newcastle player is described as difficult to achieve.
Source: standard.co.uk
