Manchester United appear set to send goalkeeper Altay Bayindir on loan to LaLiga side Celta Vigo, according to reports from Spain, in what would be the club’s fifth deal of the summer window. The move, described as close to completion, would represent a further adjustment to Erik ten Hag’s squad as United continue to refine their options ahead of the new season.
Loan to Spain expected to be lined up
Spanish media suggest Celta are keen to bring Bayindir in on a temporary basis so he can vie with Andrei Radu for the starting role. The 28-year-old arrived at Old Trafford from Fenerbahce in September 2023 but has largely fallen down the pecking order since the opening months of last season, when he began as United’s Premier League starter.
Bayindir lost his spot to summer signing Senne Lammens early in October and has not featured in a competitive match for the club since then. With under a year remaining on his current contract at Old Trafford, United hold an option to extend his deal by a further 12 months.
Contract and wage implications
Reports state Celta do not expect to pay a sizeable transfer fee and that any permanent move would likely require the player to accept reduced pay. For now, however, the scenario under discussion is a loan which would allow Bayindir to seek regular football while United retain flexibility over his longer-term future.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Age | 28 |
| Joined United | September 2023 |
| Contract status | Less than one year remaining; club option to add 12 months |
| Recent first-team action | No competitive appearances since losing starting spot in early October |
Wider transfer context at Old Trafford
The apparent Bayindir development comes as United remain active across multiple positions. The squad has already welcomed Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans this summer, and attention is understood to be shifting towards acquiring a further midfielder.
- Loan would give Bayindir the chance of regular minutes in LaLiga
- United retain control of his contract through an extension option
- Move would reduce the number of senior goalkeepers competing for game time at Old Trafford
For supporters in Manchester, the likely temporary departure of Bayindir will be watched alongside other incomings as the club balances squad depth with the need to ensure players receive sufficient match opportunities. Any formal announcement would be expected in the coming days if the reports are accurate.
