Manchester United have officially announced the signing of Crystal Palace goalkeeper Jack Butland on loan for the remainder of the season.
Erik ten Hag made the decision to make an enquiry to Crystal Palace over a loan move for Butland, who was one of their many backup options, despite not getting any minutes since the beginning of the 2022/23 campaign.
This decision was of course influenced by Newcastle recalling Martin Dubravka from his loan spell at Old Trafford. Ten Hag wanted to keep his options open with three experienced keepers after experiencing an injury crisis among his shot-stoppers at Ajax last term.
Butland passed a medical on Thursday and has now been confirmed as a loan signing.
Speaking about his loan move to United, Butland told ManUtd.com: “This is an amazing club and one that I am now proud to represent. I’m really looking forward to working with an unbelievable goalkeeping group, supporting each other every day to create the best training and playing environment for the team.
Welcome to United, @JackButland_One ✍️🔴#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) January 6, 2023
“I’ve played against David de Gea and represented England alongside Tom Heaton; they are top-class keepers, and I am relishing the opportunity to compete alongside and support them as team-mates.
“There is a lot that this group can achieve this season and I’m excited to play my part in helping everyone to reach these ambitions.”
John Murtough added: “Jack is an excellent goalkeeper with great experience throughout his career. His mentality and personality will be a real asset to our superb group of goalkeepers and the whole squad.
“Jack joins David, Tom and our young keepers to form a strong group who will all support each other in creating an optimum training and playing environment. We’re all looking forward to welcoming him into the group.”
It is worth noting that Butland’s contract at Palace will expire at the end of the season. Should he impress Ten Hag and the coaching staff between now and then, we could see the England-capped keeper join United in a Bosman deal at some point.
