Manchester United back-up goalkeeper Altay Bayindir has reportedly agreed to leave the club when the summer transfer window opens, with Besiktas his likely destination. The 27-year-old has grown frustrated with his lack of game time following the arrival of Senne Lammens and is now ready to return to Turkey.
Bayindir joined United from Fenerbahce in September 2023 for £4.3 million but has made only 17 appearances in two and a half seasons. He started the 2025/26 campaign as first-choice after Andre Onana was loaned to Trabzonspor, but the £18.2 million signing of Lammens from Royal Antwerp relegated him to the bench once more. He has not played since United's 3-1 defeat to Brentford on September 27.
Turkish outlet Fanatik reports that Bayindir has already agreed personal terms with Besiktas, who were heavily linked with a January move. United are not expected to block the transfer, which is likely to be finalised after the season ends. Bayindir's contract runs until June 2027, meaning the club will recoup a small fee.
The departure of Bayindir, coupled with United's desire to sell Onana permanently, could prompt a goalkeeping reshuffle. Onana has two years left on his contract and is reportedly reluctant to leave, but his wages would increase significantly if United qualify for the Champions League, making a sale more pressing. Veteran back-up Tom Heaton, 39, is also out of contract in June, leaving Lammens as the only senior keeper on the books.
United's hierarchy, led by chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox, are prioritising the signing of a central midfielder this summer. However, they may need to bring in a deputy goalkeeper for Lammens, possibly through the free-agent market, to avoid a major outlay.
