Jul 7, 2021; Sandy, Utah, CAN; Real Salt Lake goalkeeper David Ochoa (1) reacts to a play against the Vancouver Whitecaps in the second half at Rio Tinto Stadium.
Manchester United are among the clubs interested in signing Real Salt Lake City goalkeeper David Ochoa, according to American journalist Tom Bogert.
The lowdown: Merry-go-round
The Red Devils have performed somewhat of an overhaul in the goalkeeping department this summer, allowing Lee Grant and Dean Henderson to leave Old Trafford whilst adding experienced stopper Tom Heaton on a free transfer.
However, Erik ten Hag may be looking to strengthen the ranks once again and California-born stopper Ochoa is seemingly back on the radar having previously trained with the club back in 2018.
Following recent links to Premier League rivals West Ham, Fulham and Bournemouth, the USA and Mexico youth international appears to be on the list of multiple suitors…
The latest: ‘I’m told’
Taking to Twitter, Bogert – an MLS insider and writer for such publications as FourFourTwo – has claimed that Manchester United and Barcelona are among those keen on the 15-cap youth starlet.
He stated: “Barcelona are among clubs interested in Real Salt Lake & Mexico GK David Ochoa, I’m told. Likely for Barcelona B team. Ochoa, 21, is out of contract this winter. Club America, Xolos, San Luis, Monaco, even Manchester United (an option for cheap, young No. 3 GK) interested too.”
The verdict: No risk
Out of contract in December this year and valued at just £720,000 (Transfermarkt), signing Ochoa would likely be a wholly affordable option for United, ideal for a player who is unlikely to infiltrate the first team anytime soon.
Instead, the 21-year-old – who was described as a ‘top prospect’ by United States head coach Gregg Berhalter – would act as an understudy to Heaton and David de Gea, potentially with a view to replacing the Spaniard in the long term.
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So far in what remains a fledgeling career to date, Ochoa has kept ten clean sheets in 58 domestic appearances and earned a 6.91 Sofascore rating whilst making 3.3 saves on average per game in 28 outings during the 2021 MLS campaign.
If indeed United can beat the competition to this capture then it would have to be regarded as a positive heading into the new season.
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