Manchester United trims squad as Celta Vigo targets Bayindir

Manchester United have reached an agreement to offload goalkeeper Altay Bayindir to La Liga side Celta Vigo on a season‑long loan. The 28‑year‑old Turkish international will move to Spain after limited first‑team opportunities at Old Trafford, and the deal follows his arrival at United for roughly £4.3 million.

Celta Vigo manager Claudio Giraldez has identified Bayindir as his primary target to strengthen the club’s goalkeeping options. Giraldez expects the Turkish keeper to provide direct competition for Andrei Radu, adding depth and choice between the posts.

Bayindir’s chances at Manchester United were scarce; he made just 17 appearances across all competitions and spent most of his time as understudy to Andre Onana and later Senne Lammens. A brief spell under Ruben Amorim at the start of last season did not change his status as a backup.

The arrival of former Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow on a free transfer further pushed Bayindir down the pecking order, while veteran Tom Heaton also offered experienced cover. With the squad depth chart crowded, United deemed the loan the best route for the player.

When Bayindir joined United in September 2023 from Turkish giants Fenerbahçe, the transfer fee was reported at approximately £4.3 million (€5 million). The fee underscored the club’s initial investment before his limited game time.

The two clubs have agreed on loan terms, with documentation and medical checks to be finalised before Bayindir formally joins Celta Vigo in Spain. The season‑long arrangement will see him train and compete in La Liga.

Manchester United boss Michael Carrick will also bid farewell to striker Joshua Zirkzee, whose representatives are in talks with Juventus 75 appearances for the Red Devils and his contract runs until June 2029, making a loan move likely.

For Bayindir, the move promises regular playing time and a chance to rebuild his reputation in Spain. For Celta Vigo, the loan adds a capable goalkeeper to challenge Radu, while United frees a squad spot and reduces wage commitments.