Manchester United have been vindicated by their decision to sign Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp this summer to address their goalkeeping concerns.
The Red Devils conceded 54 goals in the Premier League last season, and it was no surprise that they finished 15th in the league table.
The Premier League giants started the 2025/26 campaign with Altay Bayindir as their new No. 1, with Andre Onana relegated to the bench.
Following Lammens’ arrival on deadline day, the Cameroonian was loaned to Trabzonspor for the rest of the season. While the Turkey international initially continued between the sticks, the Belgian was handed his first start last month and hasn’t looked back since.
An undefeated start to his Old Trafford tenure
Lammens is highly rated for his shot-stopping skills and in his debut against Sunderland, helped register the first clean sheet of United’s season.
The 23 year old has started the last five games for the Red Devils, conceding seven goals. The fact that the Premier League giants are undefeated during that period further highlights Lammens’ stellar start at the Theatre of Dreams.
Senne Lammens Premier League Stats: 2025/26 Season
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Saves Made | 14 |
| Passes (Completed %) | 208 (43%) |
| Long Passes (Completed %) | 161 (28%) |
Source: Premier League Website
United were also linked with a move for Aston Villa custodian Emiliano Martinez this summer. However, Lammens’ strong start means that a new goalkeeper is no longer a priority for Ruben Amorim.
The Belgian’s arrival, however, has raised questions about Bayindir’s future, and it now appears that the Turkey international could have the option to return to his country in 2026.
Besiktas want Bayindir
According to Turkish Football, Besiktas are planning to sign Bayindir in January to strengthen their goalkeeping department.
“Besiktas are reportedly pursuing a move to bring Manchester United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir back to Turkey, as the Istanbul giants seek to reinforce their squad following a turbulent start to the season, sources have told Turkish-Football.
“With the January transfer window approaching, Besiktas officials are determined to overhaul key areas, with the goalkeeping department being a primary focus.
“Neither the experienced Mert Gonuk nor the younger Ersin Destanoğlu has managed to convincingly claim the starting role, prompting the club to look for a definitive upgrade.
“Besiktas have identified Bayindir, who has been based at Manchester United’s Carrington training complex since his 2023 move, as their prime target.”
The report, however, adds that United are reluctant to let Bayindir leave in the middle of the season.
Final Thoughts
With Radek Vitek already earning rave reviews while on loan at Bristol City, Bayindir’s future at the Theatre of Dreams remains uncertain.
However, United may be more open to an exit at the end of the campaign, as they aim to keep their squad intact and push to secure a Champions League place this season.
Bayindir’s contract runs until 2027, so next summer could also represent the right time for the Premier League giants to cash in on the 27 year old.
Featured image Jan Kruger via Getty Images
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