Manchester United are reportedly on the verge of securing their second signing of the summer. After loaning out Dean Henderson for the 2022/23 season to Nottingham Forest, United have moved quickly to identify a replacement.
Henderson had looked like he would be on the cusp of taking the starting spot around a year ago, but David de Gea's resurgence and an untimely bout of Covid derailed Henderson's rise to being the club's number one.
Henderson still has plenty of time ahead of him to become United's long-term stopper, but not many United fans will argue against De Gea remaining first choice for now.
READ MORE: United are already listening to Klopp's advice on Ten Hag
With Henderson out, United need to bring someone in, and they've reportedly found that man in Thomas Strakosha. The Albania international, who is available on a free transfer after leaving Lazio this summer, is seen as an exciting goalkeeper and has already shown why he's a more than capable back-up.
Here's all you need to know about Strakosha and what he will bring to United if he does move to Old Trafford.
Early career
Growing up in Greece, Strakosha played for his local club Panionios up until the age of 18 before being spotted by scouts in Italy. He would be offered a contract by Lazio and moved to Rome as a teenager.
He was loaned out to Serie B side Salernitana at the age of 20 before quickly establishing himself as the number one goalkeeper at Lazio soon after. Strakosha would go on to make 164 league appearances.
Playing style
Like De Gea, Strakosha is a solid shot-stopper. Despite being 6'4", he's quick, athletic and agile. While Strakosha is a fine shot-stopper, in recent seasons he has been lacking in confidence and prone to making errors.
He's comfortable with the ball at his feet and does have some highlight passes to go with some fine saves. In the eight years he's been at Lazio, the Albania international has shown he can be relied upon.
What it means for David de Gea and Dean Henderson
If United do sign Strakosha, it might well be good news for Henderson. De Gea's contract expires at the end of the 2022/23 season, though there is the option to extend his deal by a further year, but many fans have been debating whether it is best for United to part ways with the Spanish goalkeeper given his incredibly high wages.
If De Gea does leave next season, this means someone will be able to step into the starting spot. So with United preferring not to invest in a young goalkeeper who can eventually become a starter, Henderson still has a chance. His loan spell at Forest will give him the best opportunity to shine and showcase his ability.
But Strakosha has also been given a huge opportunity and he'll be keen to make an impression. He's young enough to make a real name for himself at United and should he impress, he could be a long-term option.
READ NEXT:
