Man Utd now preparing to sign 22yo Sweden star in huge bargain deal, 7 recoveries/game
Manchester United are plotting a January move for Malmo goalkeeper Melker Ellborg, according to Swedish outlet Expressen.
The Red Devils signed Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp last summer to bolster their goalkeeping department.
Lammens had to wait until October to make his United debut, but has since been ever-present in the Premier League.
It now appears United are eyeing a young deputy for the Belgian in the form of Ellborg.
The 22-year-old made his debut for Malmo earlier this year and has since accumulated 14 appearances in all competitions.
There is reportedly ‘great interest’ in his services, and a winter move away from Malmo cannot be ruled out for the Swede.
United are mentioned as one of his admirers. They have him on their winter shortlist.
Ellborg’s arrival could coincide with Bayindir’s exit
Altay Bayindir started the season as United’s first-choice goalkeeper in the Premier League.
He made six straight appearances for the Red Devils, but his performances were unconvincing, with some average shot-stopping.
Lammens has fully capitalised on Bayindir’s mishaps in recent weeks. He has been almost flawless between the sticks.
Bayindir could now push for a winter transfer for playing time, which would boost his chances of making the World Cup squad with Turkey.
In that case, United could pursue a deal for Ellborg, who has made a big impression when Robin Olsen has been unavailable or rested at Malmo.
The Swede has made seven league appearances in the Allsvenskan this term, keeping an impressive five clean sheets.
Ellborg has saved 83 percent of the shots against him, while he has completed around 75 percent of his passes.
He has also made seven recoveries per game alongside five successful long balls.
Ellborg has the traits of a modern goalkeeper. United could seek to prise him away in a huge bargain deal.
He has a Transfermarkt value of just £265,000. The Red Devils could easily sign him for £2-3 million this winter.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
Article written by Sri Aswin .