Manchester United are set to bid for goalkeeper Asmir Begovic in the summer transfer window, according to the Telegraph.
The Stoke City player has been on a number of clubs’ radar, including Arsenal and Chelsea. But despite having 22-year-old goalkeeper David De Gea at the club, Sir Alex Ferguson is looking to sign an experienced shot stopper to put pressure on the Spaniard.
De Gea has had a mixed career with United, after his £18.3 million transfer from Atletico Madrid in 2011. Recognised as one of the best young goalkeepers, the Spaniard has been criticised for his ability handling crosses and Ferguson is looking for a proven Premier League ‘keeper to challenge De Gea for the number one spot at Old Trafford.
Stoke are bracing themselves for a flurry of bids in the summer, after managing to keep the Bosnian ‘keeper at the club until the end of the season. However, Begovic is keen to play in the Champions League, and Stoke have admitted they will have to sell in the summer. The Potters rate the ‘keeper at £15million, but are keen on pushing their asking price closer to £20million.
Chelsea had a £4 million bid for Begovic rejected in 2010, but have remained interested ever since. But with the London club looking as Begovic as a back-up to push on Petr Cech, the Bosnian may not want to join a side with limited first team opportunities.
Arsenal are the club with the most likely chance of regular first team action, with Arsene Wenger looking to replace Wojciech Szczesny at the end of the season. But with the Gunners also linked with Pepe Reina and Michel Vorm, the club may not bid for Stoke’s prize asset.
Begovic is expected to feature in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s World Cup qualifier against Greece on Friday, with both teams joint top of their table.
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