According to AS, Manchester United have emerged as a potential suitor for Real Madrid goalkeeper Keylor Navas. The Costa Rican international is set to leave the Bernabeu this summer and is attracting a lot of interest across Europe, with FC Porto, PSG and SL Benfica all reportedly keen to secure his services.
And the report claims that United are also exploring the possibility of signing Navas, who will likely be available on a cut-price, with his contract with Real Madrid expiring at the end of next season.
Keylor Navas’ decorated spell at Real Madrid
Navas was initially signed as a replacement for Iker Casillas when he joined the club back in 2014. And he has since played a vital role in Real Madrid’s success down the years, notably helping Los Blancos win three successive Champions League titles as well as one league title.
During his five year spell with the club, the former Levante keeper made 162 appearances for Real Madrid across all competitions. He has kept 52 clean sheets, which stands at a healthy ratio of almost one clean sheet per three games.
However, Navas’ importance at Real Madrid has taken a considerable hit following the arrival of Thibaut Courtois last summer. The Belgian international is currently the undisputed number one choice for the former European champions. As a result, Navas’ game-time was restricted to just ten league appearances in the recently concluded La Liga campaign.
Should Manchester United make a move for Navas?
The addition of Navas will be a smart move by Manchester United amid reports linking David de Gea with a move to PSG this summer. And in the event of the de Gea’s potential departure from Old Trafford, Navas’ vast experience in the highest level of football coupled with his excellent shot-stopping abilities will hand United a competent short-term replacement for the Spaniard.
Also, the Real Madrid ‘keeper will bring that winning mentality, having enjoyed immense success during his time at the Bernabeu. And that is something which could be useful for Manchester United setup given their struggles in the Premier League.
However, the only thing that could prevent United from signing Navas is the fact that the Red Devils have failed to qualify for the Champions League next season – something Porto, Benfica and PSG have all managed. But, at the same time, United also appear to be the only club, who can actually afford Navas’ rather lucrative wages. Therefore, it will be interesting to see how this transfer saga takes shape in the coming days.
