Crystal Palace goalkeeper Jack Butland is on the verge of signing for Manchester United on loan.
According to The Athletic, the England-capped keeper had a medical scheduled today with United ahead of a proposed move to the club.
Butland, 29, will join United until the end of the season once he completes his medical, however, he is unlikely to be registered in time for tomorrow night’s FA Cup tie against Everton.
Erik ten Hag decided to sign Butland on loan after Newcastle recalled Martin Dubravka during the week. He made it very clear at his press conference that his preferred set up requires three experienced goalkeepers.
When asked about signing Butland on loan, Ten Hag told reporters (via Manchester Evening News): “Yes, so Martin (Dubravka) was recalled and now to set up we need three experienced goalkeepers.
“We have some young ones, and they do well, but we have so many games, so you need three good goalies in training but also when problems are coming you need experience in goal to get your goals. What you are aiming for.”
It remains to be seen how many games Butland plays for United – but I wasn’t very impressed by Dubravka when he played Burnley in the Carabao Cup two weeks ago, hence why I’m not bothered about Newcastle’s decision to take him back prematurely.
Butland has six months left on his contract at Palace, so he could join United on a Bosman deal in the summer if he can impress the coaches at Carrington.
Ten Hag went on to add that De Gea is still first-choice.
“What he’s (Butland) bringing, I’m really happy with David, it’s quite clear, he’s our No. 1, he’s a really good performer, but there’s always something that can happen with David as well, and you have to be prepared for that, so you don’t have one.
“Last year I had a situation with Ajax we had three goalies injured, and you don’t want a position that you play for trophies, and you have to put in a young keeper. You can’t expect it, and also kill your season. That’s what you have to be prepared for.”
