Manchester United’s ongoing issues in the goalkeeping department were once again evident after another disappointing display from André Onana. The Cameroonian goalkeeper came under scrutiny for his role in Crystal Palace’s opening goal, adding to a series of costly mistakes since his arrival. While Onana was signed as the long-term replacement for David de Gea, his inconsistent performances have led to doubts about his reliability as United’s first-choice goalkeeper. Fans and pundits alike have started questioning whether he is the right man to lead the club’s defense in the future.
Despite Onana’s struggles, backup goalkeeper Altay Bayindir has barely been given a chance to prove himself. Since joining from Fenerbahçe, the Turkish international has been largely confined to the bench. His only opportunity to showcase his abilities came in the Europa League against Rangers, but he has yet to make a Premier League appearance. With Onana failing to inspire confidence, many supporters are puzzled as to why Bayindir has not been handed more playing time to at least offer an alternative in goal.
Under Erik ten Hag’s management, Bayindir struggled to break into the first team, as the Dutch coach continued to back Onana despite his mistakes. However, since Ruben Amorim took over, the situation has changed slightly. The new manager appears more open to giving Bayindir chances, particularly in cup competitions. He has been handed four starts so far, including a standout performance against Arsenal in the FA Cup, where his crucial penalty saves helped United progress to the next round.
Despite these limited opportunities, Bayindir is reportedly growing frustrated with his situation at the club. Turkish media outlet Star claims the goalkeeper is eager to leave United and return to Turkey in search of regular first-team football. His primary motivation is securing a starting role for the national team, something that seems increasingly unlikely if he continues as a backup at Old Trafford.
Galatasaray has emerged as a leading candidate to sign Bayindir. The Turkish club is preparing for the possible departure of long-time goalkeeper Fernando Muslera at the end of the season. With Muslera’s future uncertain, Galatasaray has reportedly set their sights on Bayindir as a potential replacement. Sources suggest that talks have already begun between the player’s representatives and multiple Süper Lig clubs, with Galatasaray leading the race for his signature.
Reports from Star indicate that Galatasaray is actively searching for a new goalkeeper, given Muslera’s potential departure. The club has prioritized securing a deal for Bayindir, seeing him as a capable long-term option between the posts. The possibility of returning to Turkey, where he would play regularly, might be appealing to Bayindir, especially with the national team in mind.
While Bayindir’s future at United is uncertain, his fate will largely depend on Amorim’s long-term vision for the goalkeeping department. The Portuguese manager could choose to persist with Onana despite his struggles or hand Bayindir a more significant role. However, United has also been linked with a move for Borussia Dortmund’s Gregor Kobel, a highly rated goalkeeper who could come in as an immediate challenger for the starting spot. Additionally, Amorim is reportedly impressed with academy talent Elyh Harrison, further complicating Bayindir’s chances of securing a regular place.
If United opts to sign another goalkeeper, Bayindir’s hopes of breaking into the first team would diminish even further. Many believe he is too talented to remain a backup, and with his contract running until 2027, United could demand a substantial transfer fee. His current market value stands at around €10 million, but with multiple clubs showing interest, United could receive competitive offers. For now, Bayindir’s future remains uncertain, and the coming months will be crucial in determining whether his time in England is coming to an early end.
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