Manchester United Could Sign Sevilla Shot-stopper for £25m: Does He Fit The Picture At Old Trafford?

Recent reports from The Sunday Mirror (via Daily Express) state that Manchester United are eyeing a move for Sevilla shot-stopper Yassine Bounou in the upcoming transfer window as Ralf Rangnick looks set to add to his goalkeeping options.

The Red Devils have reportedly enquired about the Moroccan international’s present situation, as his contract at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan runs out in 2024. Sevilla are trying to tie the goalkeeper down to a new contract that could see his release clause rise from £25million to as much as £63 million.

‘United are thought to be keen on waiting for their new manager to sign off any transfers, however, the board have a clear idea on some of the players they would like to add to their squad.’ – The report further stated.

Bounou’s 2021/22 Season In Numbers

Yassine Bounou left Spanish giants Atletico Madrid for Zaragoza (on loan) in 2016 without playing a single top-flight match. His next moves included switches to Girona and Sevilla, respectively, as he signed for the latter for a fee in the region of €4.5m in September 2020.

The 30-year-old has made 23 appearances in La Liga this term, playing a total of 2070 minutes. With an average of 0.52 goals conceded per 90 minutes, he is currently regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the Spanish top division. Bounou’s clean sheet to matches played ratio is currently at 52%, which means he has not conceded a single goal in 12 out of the 23 games.

It goes without saying that the Montreal-born shot-stopper has played a crucial role in helping Sevilla maintain their tremendous form in La Liga this term.

Does He Fit The Picture At Old Trafford?

There’s no denying that David de Gea has been brilliant between the sticks this season – making saves left, right and centre; however, he has been often criticized for lacking the essential qualities needed in a modern-day goalkeeper. The Spaniard’s collection and distribution rate has been awful this season, and things are expected to change with the arrival of Ralf Rangnick’s successor.

Furthermore, Dean Henderson is expected to be sold in the summer with Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, Watford and Borussia Dortmund interested in securing the services of the England international.

Given the circumstances, signing 30-year-old Yassine Bounou to create additional competition for de Gea might be the best possible solution. He fits the bill, and if available for a reasonable transfer fee, the board should go all in to secure his signature.

(Stats from Transfermarkt)