Manchester United's Altay Bayindir agrees terms with Besiktas
Manchester United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir has agreed personal terms with Turkish Süper Lig side Besiktas, according to reports from Turkey. The 27-year-old is expected to complete a permanent move back to his homeland this summer, ending an 18-month spell at Old Trafford where he has served as a backup option.
Turkish outlet Fanatik reports that a 'principle agreement' has been reached between the player and Besiktas, who also attempted to sign him during the January transfer window. The report states that Manchester United, who were unwilling to sanction a mid-season sale, are not expected to cause any difficulties for the transfer this time around. The club is anticipated to allow Bayindir to depart as they reshape their goalkeeping department under the new INEOS regime.
Bayindir joined United from Fenerbahce in the summer of 2024 for a reported fee of £4.3 million. He was signed as a deputy to the then-number one Andre Onana, but has made just a single competitive appearance for the club—a brief cameo in the FA Cup. With Senne Lammens now established as the undisputed first choice following Onana's loan departure to Trabzonspor, Bayindir has found himself as the third-choice goalkeeper, prompting a desire for regular football.
The move represents a logical step for all parties. For Bayindir, it offers a return to a league where he previously excelled and the chance to reclaim a starting role at a major club. For Besiktas, they secure a seasoned Turkish international with experience at a top European club. For Manchester United, it continues the process of streamlining the squad and recouping a fee for a player who is not part of their long-term plans.
While the exact transfer fee has not been disclosed, it is not anticipated to be a significant sum given Bayindir's limited involvement and his original purchase price. The transfer is expected to be formally announced after the current season concludes. This potential departure signals the beginning of a broader clear-out at United, with several senior players likely to follow Bayindir out of the exit door as the club's new sporting directors plot a new course.
