Latest developments
- Man United eyeing Brighton & Hove Albion‘s Carl Rushworth.
- West Ham United are also in the mix for his signature.
- The Seagulls have seemingly set an asking price.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3/5): Man United tracking Rushworth
Manchester United are reportedly among the clubs that are interested in signing Brighton's Rushworth in the summer transfer window.
That is according to talkSPORT, who claim the 23-year-old is one of the goalkeeping targets being explored by Man United.
Value (4/5): Cut-price fee
There is a belief that Brighton will ask for a fee in excess of £5m for a player who is under contract until the summer of 2027, making him an affordable option for his potential suitors.
Suitability (1.5/5): Unproven at top level
Rushworth spent the first half of the season on loan at Hull City, but he only made two appearances after spending time on the sidelines with an ankle injury.
The shot-stopper is still waiting to make his first appearance for Brighton and is yet to make his Premier League debut, demonstrating his inexperience at the top level.
Upgrade? (2.5/5): Possible Bayindir replacement
While Rushworth's lack of experience could be a concern, Man United would surely be looking to sign him as a backup option rather than someone to be their number one goalkeeper.
The experienced Tom Heaton is set to leave this summer, while Man United's second-choice shot-stopper, Altay Bayindir, could depart in search of a regular game time, which would leave Andre Onana as the only senior option in the squad.
Logic (3.5/5): Ready to leave Brighton
Rushworth is believed to be keen to leave the Seagulls in a bid to gain regular playing time and prove himself at the top level. However, he will struggle to fulfil that objective at Man United, although a move to Old Trafford would be difficult to turn down even if he had to settle for a squad role.
With that said, the Brighton man is likely to have other options on the table, with West Ham believed to be among his potential suitors.
Whisper+ verdict: 14.5/25
Man United may only view Rushworth as a backup goalkeeper, but they will surely have their doubts over his lack of top-flight experience. The player would also have to be prepared to accept a squad role rather than finding regular minutes elsewhere.
