Manches reter United are reportedly exploring a surprise move for Scotland international goalkeeper Angus Gunn as part of a wider restructuring of their squad ahead of the new season, with the 30 year old emerging as a serious option to reinforce competition in the goalkeeping department.
Gunn is currently available on a free transfer following his departure from Nottingham Forest, and his availability has placed him firmly on the radar of United’s recruitment team as they assess experienced alternatives to strengthen depth and reliability between the posts.
The Scotland number one has been one of the standout performers for his national team during the ongoing World Cup campaign, featuring in group stage matches against Haiti, Morocco, and Brazil. His performances have attracted renewed attention from Premier League clubs, particularly those seeking experienced, low cost options with international pedigree.
Born in Norwich, Gunn is the son of former Scotland goalkeeper Bryan Gunn and developed through Manchester City’s academy system before building his senior career across several English clubs. He first gained prominence at Norwich City, where his shot stopping ability and calm distribution under pressure established him as a reliable Championship and Premier League option.
His career has taken him through multiple stages of English football, including loan spells and permanent moves designed to give him consistent first team exposure. Over time, he has developed into a mature, positionally intelligent goalkeeper known for his reflex saves, command of the penalty area, and leadership qualities within defensive structures.
According to reports, Manchester United’s interest in Gunn is part of a broader plan to reshape their goalkeeping hierarchy. The club is preparing for a transitional period in that position group, with multiple departures and new arrivals expected as part of a long term rebuild strategy.
United’s recruitment team are believed to be reassessing their current options, with senior decision makers open to changes following an inconsistent campaign from their existing goalkeeping unit. As part of this process, both André Onana and Altay Bayındır are understood to be facing uncertain futures at Old Trafford.
Onana, who arrived from Inter Milan with high expectations, has struggled to maintain consistent form, leading to internal discussions about his future role at the club. While no final decision has been publicly confirmed, sources suggest the club would consider offers if suitable replacements are identified during the transfer window.
Bayındır, meanwhile, is also expected to move on, with a return to Turkey widely anticipated. His limited opportunities at United have made it difficult for him to establish a long term presence in the squad, prompting both player and club to consider alternative pathways.
The situation has accelerated United’s search for experienced cover and competition, particularly with the return of Champions League football increasing demands on squad depth. Managerial staff are keen to ensure that the goalkeeping department is not only competitive but also balanced in terms of experience and development potential.
Young goalkeeper Senne Lammens has already emerged as a key figure in the club’s long term planning. Since making his breakthrough appearance against Sunderland, he has shown strong potential and composure, earning internal praise for his performances. However, United are cautious about relying solely on youth in such a critical position, especially with a congested fixture schedule ahead.
As a result, the club is targeting a blend of experience and reliability to complement their emerging talent. Gunn fits this profile due to his Premier League background, international exposure with Scotland, and availability on a free transfer, which makes him a financially attractive option in a market where goalkeeper fees continue to rise.
United’s interest is also influenced by internal connections within the club’s recruitment structure. Gunn is known to have previously worked within Manchester City’s youth setup during his early development, a background that overlaps with several current figures in United’s football operations department.
While negotiations have not yet reached an advanced stage, his name is understood to be part of a shortlist that includes other experienced options across the Premier League and Championship. Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow has also been monitored, while returning loanee Radek Vitek has expressed uncertainty about a backup role, further complicating squad planning.
The timing of any potential move will depend heavily on outgoing transfers. United are expected to finalise decisions on Onana and Bayındır before committing to new arrivals, ensuring financial and squad balance is maintained ahead of pre season preparations.
If no immediate transfer is completed, Onana could still feature in upcoming friendly fixtures as the club evaluates his status. However, the expectation remains that significant changes will be made before the Premier League season begins, with United set to open their campaign against newly promoted Hull City.
For Gunn, a move to Old Trafford would represent another significant step in a career defined by perseverance and steady progression through English football. From his early development at Manchester City to his breakthrough at Norwich and subsequent spells across the league system, he has built a reputation as a dependable and experienced professional capable of performing under pressure.
His potential arrival at Manchester United would not only add depth but also introduce healthy competition in a position that has been under scrutiny in recent seasons. With elite European football returning to the club’s schedule, the importance of stability in goal has become a key priority for the coaching and recruitment teams.
As the transfer window progresses, United’s goalkeeping plans are expected to remain a major talking point, with Angus Gunn now firmly positioned as a surprise but realistic candidate in a summer of structural change at Old Trafford.
