Manchester United made a significant move on Friday as they officially acquired Turkish goalkeeper Altay Bayindir from Fenerbahce for a reported fee of £4.3 million ($5.3 million).
Bayindir has committed to a four-year contract with the option for an additional 12-month extension, solidifying his position as part of the Premier League club.
The 25-year-old will primarily serve as backup for Manchester United’s first-choice goalkeeper, Andre Onana, following Dean Henderson’s recent transfer to Crystal Palace.
Bayindir’s debut with United will mark a historic moment, as he becomes the first Turkish player to don the Old Trafford jersey.
Expressing his enthusiasm about the move, Bayindir stated, “It is a tremendous honor to join Manchester United and become the first Turkish player to represent this incredible club.
I am driven by a passion for success and will spare no effort in helping this exceptional group of players achieve our collective aspirations.”
He also highlighted his eagerness to work alongside the club’s experienced goalkeeping unit and maintain high standards on a daily basis.
Bayindir’s career boasts 166 appearances and an impressive 53 clean sheets.
He joined Fenerbahce from Ankaragucu in 2019 and played a pivotal role in their success last season, which included winning the Turkish Cup and securing second place in the Super Lig.
Manchester United’s Football Director, John Murtough, expressed his confidence in Bayindir’s addition to the squad, emphasizing that the goalkeeper’s consistent performance in a competitive European league aligns perfectly with the club’s ambitions across various competitions this season and beyond.
This acquisition concludes a summer of changes in Manchester United’s goalkeeping department, as stalwart David de Gea, who had made 545 appearances over 12 years, departed the club due to contract disputes.
Meanwhile, Andre Onana arrived from Inter Milan for a significant £47.2 million fee, reuniting with United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, who previously coached him at Ajax.
