Manchester United have ‘concrete interest’ in signing Tyrell Malacia’s former teammate

Add as preferred source on Google

As Manchester United close in on signing Cameroonian goalkeeper Andre Onana, they are reportedly targeting Justin Bijlow in addition.

It is according to reports from Dutch outlet 1908.NL that Manchester United are keen to overhaul their goalkeeping department signing not one but two new goalkeepers this summer.

The report says that Erik ten Hag has identified Feyenoord number one Justin Bijlow as the second singing between the sticks.

The Dutchman would be following Andre Onana to Old Trafford, as the Red Devils are committed to signing the Inter Milan keeper.

However United’s interest in Bijlow is believed to be ‘concrete’ so it seems likely David de Gea won’t be the only keeper departing this summer.

Dean Henderson remains set on a return to Nottingham Forest while Tom Heaton has also attracted interest with a move to Luton Town blocked by United due to the current goalkeeper crisis.

United are currently in talks to sign Onana with Inter Milan CEO Beppe Marotta confirming he is awaiting an offer. With Alfredo Pedulla suggesting a bid is being prepared worth €45million plus €5-6m in bonuses (£38.7m plus £4.2-£5.1m).

READ: Confirmed Manchester United transfers in, out, loans, releases, youth for 2023/24

Who is Manchester United target Justin Bijlow?

25-year-old Bijlow has just come off the best season of his career so far, helping Feyenoord to the Eredivisie title. The Dutch international has made eight appearances for his country, including the last two competitive games in the Nations League.

Bijlow played 25 games in the Eredivisie triumph conceding just 19 goals and kept 12 clean sheets. He also played a key part in his sides run to the Europa League quarter-finals.

The 6 foot 1 goalkeeper is dominant in his box ranking in the 90th percentile for crosses stopped and averaging 1.16 defensive actions outside his penalty box per 90, as per FBRef.

Bijlow is also a great sweeper and ball player; completing 99.3% of his short passes, 98.4% of his medium distance passes and 50.3% of his long passes, a safe pair of hands and feet.

With a current market value of just €15m (£12.8m), Bijlow represents great value for money and could be a significant upgrade on any current second keeper option. He would also have a smooth transition with United’s growing ex Eredivisie group, along with his former Feyenoord teammate Tyrell Malacia.