Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth has confirmed live on TV that 'talks have opened' between Manchester United and Crystal Palace over Jack Butland.

The Lowdown: Talks reported

It has recently been reported that the Red Devils are in talks with Palace over the potential signing of Butland in this window, with the conditions of the deal needing to be ironed out.

This comes after Newcastle United decided to recall Martin Dubravka from his loan spell at Old Trafford, so it seems as if Erik ten Hag's side are now looking for another understudy to David de Gea.

The Latest: Talks confirmed

Speaking live on Sky Sports' The Transfer Show (17:23pm), Sheth has confirmed reports of talks being held between both clubs over Butland, but added that United are also looking at other options in the goalkeeping position:

"Manchester United are looking at goalkeeping options. One name that has come up is Jack Butland, currently at Crystal Palace. 

"One of our sources has gone so far as to say that talks have opened between the two clubs, over the potential move of Butland to United.

"Palace might think - let's get some money in January."

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The Verdict: Goalkeeper needed

After Dubravka was recalled by Newcastle, it has left United with just De Gea and veteran Tom Heaton to call upon in between the sticks, with both players out of contract in the summer.

Thus, they need another goalkeeper to come in as cover for the second part of the campaign, with the Red Devils still in all domestic competitions as well as the UEFA Europa League.

Butland is vastly experienced in the Premier League, and being English, would also help fill their homegrown quota.

Nonetheless, a move for the 29-year-old in January seems to make sense.