Urawa Reds goalkeeper Zion Suzuki has revealed that Manchester United made an offer to sign him during the recently concluded transfer window.
The Red Devils had a clear intention to sign Andre Onana as their first-choice goalkeeper this summer, but they wanted Suzuki as the deputy shot-stopper.
Talks were held with his representatives, but the Japan international was not keen on the transfer as he wanted the assurance of regular first-team football.
As a result, he made the move to the Belgian Pro League with Sint-Truidense VV. He has joined the club on a season-long loan, but there is no option to buy.
In an interview relayed through Voetbal Belgie, Suzuki revealed his ambition to play in the Premier League and confirmed the summer interest from United.
The 21-year-old added that he wants to play regularly at any level and did not rule out the possibility of moving to the English top-flight in the coming years.
He said: “My dream is to play in the English Premier League.”
“It is true that I have received an offer from Manchester United, but United have acquired Onana this season, so I want to play at a level where I can play.
“Even if I can’t go there now, I definitely want to go there in a few years. To make progress step by step, I decided to move to Belgium.”
United may not return for Suzuki
The Red Devils had a goalkeeper overhaul in the summer. David de Gea ended his 12-year association with the club as he left on a free transfer.
Jack Butland, who was on loan from Crystal Palace, decided to join Rangers following the expiry of his contract with the Eagles on June 30.
Elsewhere, Dean Henderson called time on his United career to sign for Crystal Palace.
United now have Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir as the first and second-choice goalkeepers respectively following their arrivals from Inter and Fenerbahce.
Both players are good with the ball at their feet, and United are unlikely to invest on another modern goalkeeper over the coming seasons.
Suzuki definitely has the potential to become an elite goalkeeper and we won’t be surprised if he ends up at another Premier League club soon.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
