According to ESPN, Atletico Madrid goalkeeper Jan Oblak is keen to leave the club this summer due to “broken promises”. He has also questioned Atleti’s competence after losing the likes of Diego Godin, Lucas Hernandez and Juanfran. And it is believed that the Slovakian international now favours a move to his “boyhood” club Manchester United.
What Oblak can bring to the table?
Oblak is regarded as one of the world’s best goalkeepers, if not the best. The 26-year-old has enjoyed immense success since joining Atletico Madrid back in 2014. He has notably kept more clean sheets (57) than any other goalkeeper since the 2016/17 campaign.
The former Benfica star is mostly known for his excellent shot-stopping abilities. Oblak is blessed with lightning quick reflex that allows him to make crucial saves even from close range. The Atleti ‘keeper boasts the best save success rate in Europe in each of the past two seasons.
Oblak has also made the sixth highest number of saves in La Liga this past season while his tally of 65 saves from inside the penalty box is bettered only by four other goalkeepers. And that is an insane statistic given the fact that he plays for a club that finished second in the league table.
The 26-year-old has excellent technique and is usually very quick in recovering himself. He is not as effective as the likes of Marc Andre ter Stegen or Manuel Neuer with the ball. But, he can still distribute possession and dribble players, if necessary.
Why Manchester United should sign Oblak
Oblak would be a massive coup for Manchester United amid reports linking David de Gea to a move to PSG. The French champions have identified the Spaniard as their desired replacement for the departing Gianluigi Buffon. And should the move take place, United will be devoid of reliable goalkeeping options next season.
Oblak, in that regard, will be an ideal replacement for de Gea. Much like the Spanish international, the Atletico goalie is known for his quick reflexes and has a vast experience in top-flight football. He can also impose his presence inside the box and is unlikely to find any difficulties in integrating to the Premier League.
The Slovakian international is likely to cost around €120 million, which is believed to be the amount of his release clause. Oblak could become the most expensive goalkeeper in history should Manchester United trigger that release clause. And, it’s a possibility the Red Devils should explore, if de Gea indeed leaves the club this summer.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
