Manchester United are considering a summer move for Wigan Athletic goalkeeper Sam Tickle, according to reports from The Daily Mail.
The 22-year-old has emerged as one of the best young goalkeepers in the EFL over the course of the past two seasons. This has seen him attract attention from a host of Championship clubs, with the likes of Sunderland and Preston North End previously thought to have been keen on his signature.
Tickle rose through the Latics academy, taking the number one spot following their relegation from the second tier. Despite two separate four-point deductions last season, Wigan achieved a 12th-placed finish in League One. It was a season in which the shot stopper earned widespread plaudits, eventually winning the club’s Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year.
In order to ward of interest from the division above, the Greater Manchester-based side rewarded the youngster with a new four-year deal last summer which is set to keep him at The Brick Community Stadium until 2028.
Manchester United Keep Close Watch
Manchester United’s woes this season have been well documented. They are on course for their worst finish of the Premier League era and currently sit 14th in the table.
The Red Devils made the decision to part company with Erik ten Hag in October last year, opting to bring in Ruben Amorim from Sporting Lisbon. The former Portuguese international is thought to be keen on bringing in a goalkeeper as backup to current first choice Andre Onana, with the view of taking the number one spot in the near future.
Onana has come under huge scrutiny since swapping the San Siro for Old Trafford. Following a number of high profile errors, United are planning for the future. Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford is a target but he is also wanted by Newcastle United, with Nick Pope expected to leave in the summer.
As such, Tickle is seen as another young prospect within the EFL who is expected to have a big future. It is claimed that the 20-time English champions have long been keeping an eye on his progress and could launch a bid once the transfer window reopens in June.
Writer’s View
Sam Tickle is exceptionally highly rated at Wigan and it’s no surprise to see Premier League clubs start to take an interest. Manchester United definitely need an upgrade on Andre Onana but the fact is they can’t afford to buy a ready-made replacement. As such, they’re looking down the football pyramid for future gems and the 22-year-old could be just that. Should he move to Old Trafford, he would have to be patient. A permanent transfer where he moves back to Wigan on a season-long loan could be beneficial for all parties.
