The Red Devils had a replacement lined up if David de Gea had chosen to leave, it has been revealed.
Benfica goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos was a target for Manchester United before David de Gea extended his contract.
Manchester United confirmed this week the Spanish international has committed himself to the club until June 2023, but reports from Greece say the Premier League side were looking at other options before they found an agreement with De Gea.
Sportime.Gr reports Benfica shot-stopper Odysseas Vlachodimos could have joined Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side if De Gea hadn’t extended his contract, but a move to Old Trafford for the Greek international now looks very unlikely.
United scouts have been active in Portugal over the past year – and it has now emerged the Greek man was a prime target. The former Panathinaikos player has been in great form since joining the Portuguese side for €2.5m in 2018 and he’s established himself as their No.1.
It looks likely the 25 year old will stay with Benfica for the foreseeable future and will be hoping his performances eventually result in a move to a bigger league.
In addition to these claims from Greece, there were reports in the Portuguese media throughout the summer that Benfica were trying to replace the player.
SEE ALSO:
- OGS guarantees more time for Greenwood
- Lindelof: Manchester United is like a home to me
- Fans react to Mason Greenwood’s Europa League goal
