Manchester United goalkeeper Matej Kovar is set to join Bayer Leverkusen on a permanent deal, according to InFotbal.
The 23-year-old spent the previous campaign on loan with Sparta Prague. He made 28 appearances in the Czech top-flight as they went on to lift the title.
Kovar was recently involved in United’s friendlies against Leeds United and Lyon, but he was left out of the US pre-season tour with the plan to loan him out.
However, United have now agreed to sell him to Leverkusen for an initial fee of €6 million. The transfer figure could rise to €10m with performance bonuses.
Kovar has already travelled to Germany for his medical and a transfer could be finalised in the coming hours. United have agreed a buy-back clause as part of the deal.
United have made the right decision with Kovar
Kovar has been with the Red Devils since the age of 17, but has not made a competitive appearance.
He showed promise during the first two pre-season games with his quality distribution, but it was clear that manager Erik ten Hag did not view him as part of his plans.
Andre Onana should be the undisputed starter in goal for the Premier League and Champions League matches this season. Tom Heaton could occupy the deputy position.
There was much talk about Heaton leaving for Luton Town earlier in the summer transfer window, but he has been convinced to stay after speaking with the manager.
Meanwhile, Kovar is set to compete with Lukas Hradecky for the number one role at Leverkusen.
The Finland international has been the undisputed starter since replacing Bernd Leno in 2018. He has made 216 appearances but Kovar will be aiming to displace him.
United face a win-win situation with the transfer. If Kovar develops into an elite shot-stopper, they can bring him back by triggering the buy-back clause agreed.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
