Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could be about to make a key change between the sticks at Manchester United . David De Gea's future at Old Trafford has been called into question after dropping a number of clangers while rising star Dean Henderson's stock continues to rise on loan at Sheffield United .
Related articles Man Utd set to open talks over £23m Real Madrid transfer next week Man Utd make definitive Sancho transfer decision after Coman reports READ MORE Man Utd may be hours away from meeting Jadon Sancho's three demands Henderson has emerged as one of the country's best between the sticks after two brilliant campaigns on loan at Bramall Lane.
The 23-year-old was already being tipped for the top after an encouraging 2017/18 season in League One with Shrewsbury which saw Salop reach the League One play-off final and EFL Trophy final.
He made the step up to Championship level look easy, conceding only 41 goals and keeping 21 clean sheets in 46 appearances in his maiden year with the Blades as they won promotion to the big time.
The England hopeful has continued his development in his sophomore season in Sheffield, and his fine form had fans calling for his return even before De Gea's wretched form post-lockdown.
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Man Utd boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could change his goalkeeping situation (Image: GETTY) READ MORE Man Utd chief Ed Woodward could axe eight players to fund summer spree Solskjaer has already earmarked Henderson to eventually become the Red Devils' long-term choice in goal.
“Dean has made some great choices over the years and has developed fantastically,” the United boss said last month.
“We’re looking at that in terms of where he’s going to be next season, but as yet that has not been decided.
“This season has proved a great experience for him, he’s done himself some favours with his performances and proved he will be England’s No.1 and Man United’s No.1 at some point.”
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Trending Blades boss Chris Wilder has admitted he would love to keep Henderson for a third season and that tentative talks have been held.
“We have had initial conversations,” he said last month. “Of course, we would be open to Dean coming back.
“He’s Manchester United’s player so they will make that decision with what is best for themselves, in conjunction with Dean.
“And obviously from our point of view, if there is an opportunity, we would love to take that up.”
But Wilder does not appear to be confident of keeping Henderson, with The Sun claiming he is looking at Bournemouth stopper Aaron Ramsdale to become his new No 1.
Dean Henderson has shone on loan at Sheffield United (Image: GETTY)
David De Gea has endured a challenging campaign (Image: GETTY) It might be that Henderson is heading elsewhere but the search for an alternative could suggest Solskjaer is set to twist with Henderson as his new first-choice goalkeeper as opposed to sticking with De Gea.
The Spaniard's season slumped to a new low in the FA Cup semi-final defeat to Chelsea after a gaffe-prone appearance.
Solskjaer gave De Gea his supporter afterwards and stuck with the 29-year-old for the following match against West Ham , despite speculation suggesting he would turn to No 2 Sergio Romero.
It is difficult to imagine many clubs being able to afford a fee for De Gea and absorb his wages so a season of transition could take place - with Henderson taking the gloves in the league and the current No 1 being reduced to European and cup duties.
