Manchester United is reportedly ready to outbid Rangers in the race to sign goalkeeper Jack Butland. Rangers are interested in signing the England international goalkeeper to strengthen their squad for next season, with Allan McGregor set to leave the club at the end of his contract.
Butland, who will also become a free agent this summer, is believed to be manager Michael Beale’s top choice to be the goalkeeper at Ibrox. However, Man Utd has now thrown a curveball by offering to double the contract that Rangers have presented to the 30-year-old. According to the Scottish Sun, this unexpected move by the Red Devils has complicated the situation for Rangers.
Man Utd’s Butland offer not as crazy as it seems
The recent report regarding Manchester United‘s interest in signing Jack Butland may not be as surprising as it seems. Butland spent the second half of the season on loan at Manchester United from Crystal Palace, where he had fallen out of favour. He has not played a single game under Erik ten Hag, with David de Gea firmly entrenched as the first-choice goalkeeper.
Furthermore, the report may not be too concerning for Manchester United fans, as Butland’s wages at Rangers are expected to be significantly lower than what he would receive in the Premier League. The average first-team wage at Rangers is around £20,000 per week, which is substantially smaller than what Manchester United offers their players. Additionally, Butland’s signing would also help United meet their quota of eight English players in their 25-man Premier League squad.
Despite this, the report has still caused some concern among Manchester United supporters.