Manchester United loan goalkeeper Jack Butland is set to become a free agent at the end of the season.
The Athletic report Crystal Palace are content with their current options in goal and Jack Butland is surplus to requirements.
His contract expires at the end of the season. This could have implications for Manchester United in the summer.
The goalkeeper position is one in flux at present. Butland could yet be re-signed.
Butland to become free agent
Jack Butland is a back-up at Manchester United. With Tom Heaton out injured he is up to second choice, having been the third option since his January loan move.
When it comes to Manchester United goalkeepers next season, nothing at all is certain.
David de Gea‘s contract expires in June, while Dean Henderson could also be sold at the end of the campaign.
Tom Heaton’s contract expires too. He is 36, while Butland is 30. It makes more sense for Erik ten Hag to pursue Butland as a longer term back-up.
The manager made clear this year he wants three first choice goalkeepers.
Whatever happens with De Gea, Butland’s current role will need replacing, and it would make a lot of sense to do it with… Butland himself.
The former England international has not played a game yet for Manchester United. But if he is needed, he will be ready.
This isn’t the most exciting summer deal, but it is a possibility that United take a practical view to sign Butland on a one or two year deal if Erik ten Hag is pleased with is work behind the scenes.
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