West Ham United fail with a bid for Manchester United target Zion Suzuki
Manchester United have been keeping a close eye on their goalkeeper position for some time now. Last season made it clear that something was amiss there. Many fingers pointed to André Onana, who conceded avoidable goals and caused costly point losses. Although his future remains uncertain, it does not seem that Old Trafford has complete confidence in him as their sole goalkeeper.
For this reason, the board are already considering fresh alternatives to strengthen the goal. Among the names being mentioned is Zion Suzuki, a young player who has shone at Parma. The Japanese player has reflexes and maturity despite his young age, qualities that are appreciated in Manchester.
The interest in Suzuki is not new. According to Parma Live, United were already following him at the beginning of the year. There were even rumours that Ruben Amorim wanted to sign him to strengthen the squad this summer. However, Parma set the price at £45 million, a figure that the English club did not seem willing to pay for a possible second goalkeeper. Meanwhile, West Ham tried to get ahead of the game. The Hammers made an offer of €25 million (£21.5 million), but Parma rejected it without batting an eyelid. The Italian club are not going to give away a goalkeeper with such a promising future.
West Ham United fail with their first offer for Manchester United target Zion Suzuki
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In our opinion, the 22-year-old is a goalkeeper with very sharp reflexes and a modern reading of the game. He likes to play out from the back, which fits in with United’s style. In addition, his age allows him to grow and adapt to the frenetic pace of the Premier League. However, we also see weaknesses. The Japanese is young and has no experience in high-pressure situations such as Old Trafford, where any mistake is costly.
Paying £45 million for a goalkeeper who would be a substitute makes no sense. United should negotiate hard and not exceed £30 million. That would be a fair price for a reliable substitute who could fight for the starting spot. If Parma do not lower their asking price, it might be worth exploring other options, as other promising goalkeepers would be cheaper. Onana deserves competition, but it’s not worth overpaying for a youngster with no experience in big moments. Suzuki would be a good fit as a future project, as long as he doesn’t break the bank. If West Ham come back with a better offer and get ahead, it won’t be a tragedy either. United need goalkeepers who earn points, not ones who raise doubts. This time, spending wisely is more important than spending a lot.