Latest developments
- Manchester United are keen on Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.
- The Japanese international turned down a move to Old Trafford in 2023.
- He is now expected to cost around £40 million.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3/5): Former interest noteworthy
Man Utd are intent on mixing up their goalkeeping department by signing Japanese international Zion Suzuki from Parma.
This comes from talksport.com, who claim United have been interested for some time, with Suzuki was close to joining in 2023, but was unhappy at the proposal to loan him out upon signing.
Value (1.5/5): Parma want a huge fee
Instead, Suzuki moved to Parma for around £6 million and three clean sheets this season has helped his market value rise to £7.6 million.
However, the Serie A side are said to want something in the region of £40 million for the USA-born shot stopper, who they have under contract until 2029.
Suitability (2.5/5): Time to develop
For that price, Parma clearly feel he is ready to play for one of the world's biggest clubs, but the 22-year-old former Sint-Truiden man still has a lot of developing to do.
That said, comparisons have been drawn to current United number 1, Andre Onana, as Suzuki is good with his feet and able to command his penalty box, making him a decent fit for Ruben Amorim.
Upgrade? (2/5): Not there yet
He may be similar and has the potential to be better, but Suzuki is unlikely to take the gloves from Onana any time soon.
With Altay Bayindir the hero of the hour after his penalty heroics against Arsenal, Suzuki will have to work hard for a place on the Old Trafford bench for now.
Logic (1.5/5): Little sense all round
Having missed out on Suzuki for a low fee 18 months ago, they would be better off labelling him “the one that got away”, rather than fork out a crazy price for a back-up goalkeeper.
Impressing at Parma, Serie A survival this season might be enough for Suzuki to stay put and keep developing until a bigger club is serious about making him their first-choice ‘keeper.
Whisper+ verdict: 10.5/25
A case of “what might have been” for both United and Suzuki, Parma's price surely makes this a non-starter?
