Manchester United is reportedly considering a move for Lazio’s goalkeeper Ivan Provedel, as per sources from Footballwave. The 29-year-old has made a name for himself as a top shot-stopper in Serie A and has recently secured a regular position on Italy’s national team.
This season, Provedel has gained significant recognition not just for his goalkeeping, but also for his unique achievement as a goal-scoring goalkeeper. His most memorable moment came during the Champions League group stage, when he scored a last-minute equalizer that helped Lazio draw 1-1 with Atletico Madrid. His 96th-minute header was crucial in advancing Lazio to the tournament’s round of 16, marking only the third instance in Champions League history where a goalkeeper scored in open play.
Provedel’s goal-scoring ability is not an isolated incident. He had previously showcased his skills while on loan at Juve Stabia in 2020, where he scored a late equalizer against Ascoli. Interestingly, Provedel began his career as a striker, scoring 27 goals as a youth player for Pordenone in the 2008/09 season before transitioning to goalkeeping.
Manchester United’s interest in Provedel indicates they may be looking to alter their goalkeeping lineup. While the club is known for having one of the top ball-playing goalkeepers, acquiring Provedel would add a unique talent with a scoring ability. However, Lazio’s €35 million asking price for Provedel may present a challenge for United in the upcoming January transfer window, though they might consider him again in the summer.
In the meantime, Andre Onana, signed from Inter Milan for €51 million (plus €4 million in bonuses), has struggled to live up to expectations at Old Trafford. Despite a strong season with Inter, where he led the Champions League in clean sheets and was praised for his ball distribution, Onana has faced backlash for critical errors, particularly in matches against Galatasaray and Bayern Munich. United’s difficulties this season are evident, as they trail in the Premier League and are already eliminated from both European competitions and the League Cup. The potential acquisition of Provedel could reflect the club’s desire to strengthen vital positions and reestablish themselves as a competitive force across various competitions when the summer transfer window opens.
