Switzerland goalkeeper Yvon Mvogo claims he turned down a transfer to Manchester United in the summer because he didn’t want to warm the bench.
In his defence, that is exactly what Altay Bayindir has done during his two years at United. It could be argued that we need better competition for Andre Onana, but there is no denying that he is the first-choice goalkeeper.
United are always going to need a second-choice keeper and it’s a matter of finding the best option who is happy to sit on the bench most weeks.
The Reds require decent back-up because Onana will be missing whenever the Africa Cup of Nations takes place.
However, it’s not an area United need to worry about unless they lose Bayindir. It’s also worth noting that Tom Heaton is a reliable pair of hands as a third choice.
Yvon Mvogo admits turning down United
Mvogo, 30, has told Blick in an interview that he turned down a chance to sign for United in the summer. He was linked to several clubs after his current club, FC Lorient, were relegated to Ligue 2.
The FC Lorient keeper admits United made him an offer which he refused outright.
“I wanted to leave Lorient after relegation so that I could continue to compete and prove myself at the highest possible level. I knew it could be problematic if I played in the second division,” Mvogo said.
“There were a lot of offers. They all came relatively early. At this point I wanted to take some time with the decision.
“I had no idea how difficult the market would be during the summer. Many clubs then wanted free transfer goalies or those who could be borrowed. But I had a contract with Lorient, so a transfer fee would have been due.
“Correct, Manchester United for example (wanted him as number two). But that wasn’t an option for me. I’m not happy if I can’t stand on the pitch. I currently want to enjoy my time on the field, together with fans and teammates. I want to play for titles and ideally win them.”