After costly Bayindir error, United set to reconsider keeper situation

Manchester United’s opening-day defeat at Arsenal has reopened debate around the goalkeeping position, leaving the club with a decision they may no longer be able to postpone.

Following an error from Altay Bayindir, that proved decisive in the 1–0 loss, the spotlight is back on United’s recruitment team.

They have not yet signed a new goalkeeper - but are under increased pressure to do so.

On Sunday, with Andre Onana missing from the squad, Bayindir was given a rare start but misjudged a routine corner situation that led to Arsenal’s winner.

It was a reminder of how costly mistakes in this position can be - even in matches where United otherwise exert control.

Concerns about United’s goalkeeping options are not new. Recruitment staff had flagged the position as an area of risk earlier in the summer, and Ruben Amorim was in agreement.

Sources indicated that he wanted to be able to have a trusted No.1 that was not error-prone.

The focus primarily shifted towards reinforcing midfield and attacking options but exploratory work has been carried out for between the sticks - clearly showing that there is some intent to sign someone new.

There have been three main considerations up to now. United held preliminary discussions with Gianluigi Donnarumma’s representatives recently, while a possible loan for Emiliano Martínez was genuinely considered.

The club have additionally monitored 23-year-old Senne Lammens from Antwerp as a younger option, and there are indications he could yet prove to be a player they pursue before deadline day.

They may need a departure to free up squad space and wages. With Onana, there is some possibility they attempt to find a new home for him - even on loan - late in the window.

There will now be new meetings to decide if the goalkeeper position is going to seriously harm their chances of progress.