United must pounce for the “best in the league” who will be available on a free, it can change Amorim’s luck – opinion

Word on the street is that Manchester United remain keen to sign a goalkeeper next year.

So what if they got the deal done without spending a penny?

Well, United could do just that if they pounce on the opportunity to sign Newcastle United’s 33-year-old shot-stopper Nick Pope on a free transfer next summer.

Newcastle’s goalie chase, United-Pope links

Last summer, Newcastle were actively chasing a top goalkeeper, a move many believed would put Pope’s place in Eddie Howe’s line-up under serious threat.

They missed out on their top target, James Trafford, but ended up landing Aaron Ramsdale.

While the Ramsdale deal was being negotiated, reports surfaced suggesting it could pave the way for Pope to make the switch to Old Trafford. That move never materialised.

But its collapse may have perfectly set the stage for United to launch a Bosman move for the England international next summer.

Pope is now into the final 12 months of his contract at St James’ Park, and if Newcastle reignites their search for a top keeper next year, they may see sense in moving him on.

United should be primed to pounce.

Best in the league

Given Pope’s superb start to the season, he could be a brilliant capture.

Seven games into the league campaign, he has kept five clean sheets and conceded just five goals (United, by comparison, have shipped 11).

According to WhoScored, Pope ranks as the highest-rated Premier League keeper so far.

Perfect mentor for Lammens

With Pope, United could inject valuable experience into their goalkeeping department, allowing Tom Heaton to bow out gracefully.

It has recently become clear that Amorim’s pursuit of another keeper is not because he has doubts over Lammens.

Far from it, he is reportedly been blown away by the 23-year-old, viewing him as Courtois 2.0 and a future pillar of his defence.

Lammens’ debut already hinted at “serious” promise.

So Amorim’s pursuit may be about developing his young recruit alongside a seasoned goalie to build a reliable goalkeeping department.

And Pope fits that bill perfectly.

Still early in his development, Lammens could learn plenty from Pope, whose Premier League pedigree makes him an ideal mentor.

The experience Pope brings could be the perfect fountain of knowledge for ‘Baby Courtois’ as he looks to establish himself at the Theatre of Dreams.

Smart squad building

With other pressing needs, like overhauling United’s midfield, securing a top keeper on a free would allow INEOS to redirect funds towards signing dynamic midfielders.

That could take Amorim one step closer to assembling his dream team.

Featured image Stu Forster via Getty Images

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