Man Utd Near Signing of Another Keeper Despite Lammens' Arrival

 

Manchester United’s goalkeeping department is undergoing a quiet revolution. Despite the recent arrival of Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp, the Red Devils are reportedly close to finalizing a deal for 16-year-old Derby County prodigy Charlie Hardy

Hardy, who made his U18 debut at just 15 and has represented England at youth level, is widely regarded as one of the brightest young talents in the country. His potential has drawn comparisons to Joe Hart’s early rise, and United’s interest signals a long-term strategy to rebuild their goalkeeping pipeline.

A Department in Flux

United’s goalkeeping situation has been anything but stable. Andre Onana is currently on loan at Trabzonspor, Tom Heaton is nearing the end of his contract, and third-choice options like Radek Vitek and Elyh Harrison are out on loan. Even Lammens, signed on deadline day, has yet to make a senior appearance.

The club’s decision to pursue Hardy—despite already adding Lammens—suggests a layered approach: one eye on immediate depth, another on future succession.

Why Hardy?

Hardy’s rapid development at Derby has caught the attention of scouts across England. He was on the bench against United’s own U18s at just 14, and his composure, reflexes, and distribution have earned rave reviews.

United’s academy has struggled to produce a long-term No.1 since the days of Gary Walsh. Dean Henderson’s brief stint as starter in 2021 was promising but short-lived. Hardy could be the first true homegrown contender in decades.

Strategic Implications

This move aligns with United’s broader youth-first rebuild under their new sporting structure. With INEOS pushing for sustainable squad planning, investing in Hardy is a low-risk, high-upside play.

Lammens, meanwhile, remains a wildcard. The Belgian has impressed behind the scenes but is still adapting to English football. His role may be transitional, while Hardy is groomed for the long haul.

What’s Next?

If the deal is finalized, Hardy will likely join United’s U18s or U21s, with a development plan tailored to fast-track his growth. Fans should temper expectations—he’s years away from senior minutes—but the intent is clear: United want to build a competitive, self-sustaining goalkeeping unit.