MANCHESTER UNITED have reportedly joined Liverpool in the race for Anderlecht goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
That’s amid doubts over a contract extension for club icon David De Gea.
The Spanish stopper, 32, joined United from Atletico Madrid in 2011.
But his deal expires at the end of the season.
And Erik ten Hag is yet to decide if De Gea should continue between the sticks as he looks to create a new dynasty at Old Trafford.
Talks remain ongoing over a new contract with a reduced wage.
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But in the meantime, HLN claims United are now weighing up a bid for Anderlecht’s 6ft 4in gloveman Verbruggen.
The 20-year-old has made quite an impression in Belgian football after being handed his debut two years ago.
And Verbruggen is now set for his international bow after being called up for Holland’s Euro qualifiers against France and Gibraltar.
SunSport exclusively revealed Liverpool’s interest last month.
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And Vincent Kompany is still keeping tabs after trying to sign Verbruggen for Burnley last summer.
United are now considering a swoop, even if De Gea ends up penning an extension.
But Anderlecht are unlikely to sell for less than £8.5million.
Verbruggen himself is remaining tight-lipped over his future, saying: “Will I still play here next season? That’s a very direct question.
“I’m now really into that yet, June is so far away. I want to keep performing with Anderlecht first, I am happy at this club.”
Former Spurs star and now Anderlecht captain Jan Vertonghen reckons Verbruggen can be the best in the world.
He added: “For me, he has the potential to become one of the best goalies if you see where he is now.
“I have rarely seen such a personality at that age, modest but very driven and ambitious.
“If I’m a top European club and have the money to spend, I wouldn’t hesitate.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
