Manchester United have agreed a deal for Jack Butland from Crystal Palace. The goalkeeper will be joining after Martin Dubravka was recalled by Newcastle United in the middle of the season.
David De Gea is still the number one choice for Erik Ten Hag, but he has explained why he needs three goalkeepers in the line-up. The other back-up option is 36-year-old Tom Heaton, who has been with the club since the start of the season itself.
Manchester United sign Jack Butland on loan
The Englishman has made the move on a straight loan deal with no buy option. His contract with Crystal Palace expires at the end of the season, and he will be free to choose a new club if he doesn’t continue with the London-based club.
The medical assessment surrounding Jack Butland’s transfer has been completed and it is now only a matter of time before the move is made official.
“We need three good goalkeepers in training. If there are problems, we need experience in goal. I’m really happy with David, that is quite clear – he’s our number one and he’s performing really well. But as I always say, something can happen with David,” Erik Ten Hag told reporters. “You have to be prepared for when you are unlucky. Last year I had a situation with Ajax where we had three goalkeepers injured.
“You don’t want a situation at the end of the season – when hopefully you can play for trophies – where you have to put in a young goalkeeper. You can’t expect it from a young goalkeeper and it can kill your season. That’s what you have to be prepared for.”
