Jack Butland almost joined Manchester United last summer but cruel twist of fate involving Anthony Martial cost him transfer from Crystal Palace

06/01/2023 16:43

Jack Butland almost joined Manchester United last summer only for Anthony Martial to cost him a the big move. The Crystal Palace goalkeeper completed a loan switch to Old Trafford on Friday morning, a deal that will run until the end of the season. Butland completed his loan move to Manchester United at the second time of askingGetty He was supposed to join United last summer, but broke his hand during a friendly, which forced him offGetty The 29-year-old replaces Martin Dubravka in Erik ten Hag’s squad, following his return to Newcastle United this week. Dubravka joined the Red Devils at the end of the summer transfer window, a deal that now appears to have been a backup to the originally planned move for Butland. According to The Athletic, United made the goalkeeper their first choice target to be David de Gea’s understudy. However, that move was scuppered when United played Crystal Palace in a friendly in Melbourne. With a transfer all-but confirmed, Butland was injured during the match as he broke his hand, saving an effort from Anthony Martial, whom he now calls a teammate. United don’t hold an option to make the deal permanent following its conclusion in the summer, however they will cover the full cost of Butland’s wages for the duration of his loan spell. Butland is the new No.2 at Old Trafford but almost joined last summerGetty Most read in Football ALL OK Ronaldo can live with partner Rodriguez despite Saudi's strict unmarried couple laws missed Souness pays touching tribute to 'gorgeous soul' Vialli and breaks down in tears legend Vialli's ex-Chelsea teammate Minto breaks down in tears during tribute to Blues hero RIP Gianluca Vialli: Ex-Chelsea, Juventus and Italy striker dies aged 58 SOON Man United sign Palace goalkeeper Butland as Ten Hag reveals reason for loan switch Brutal 'The worst character' - Lyon legend Juninho hits out at Ronaldo's new coach Garcia United did consider the option of bringing back Dean Henderson from his loan at Nottingham Forest, but they have now moved to bring in Butland as back-up. Explaining the move, Erik ten Hag said: “Martin was recalled and in our set-up we need a squad with three experienced goalkeepers. “We have some young ones and they do well but we have so many games so you need three good goalies in training and you need experience in the goal to get what you are aiming for. “What is (Butland) bringing? I’m really happy with David, it’s quite clear he’s our number one. He’s a really good performer. But something can happen with David as well. “You have to prepared for that and not be in such a moment where you have only one experienced (goalkeeper), you can be unlucky.”