Manchester United want to sign Crystal Palace goalkeeper Jack Butland in January after Martin Dubravka was recalled by Newcastle.

That’s according to a report from The Telegraph who claim that Erik ten Hag’s search for a back-up goalkeeper has led him to the 29-year-old Palace stopper.

Butland, a nine-capped England international, hasn’t played a single game all season for Palace. So links with the ex-Birmingham City and Stoke man may well come as a surprise to the United fans.

Ten Hag’s back-up keeper search has clearly reached a desperation stage after Dubravka returned to Newcastle.

Bringing Butland to Old Trafford on a short-term deal wouldn’t be a terrible move, although there are better options out there for the Red Devils.

Manchester United eyeing January Butland swoop

Butland could be Old Trafford-bound imminently. Ten Hag wants the Palace goalkeeper to serve as David de Gea’s understudy for the remainder of the season, according to The Telegraph.

Standing 6ft 5in tall, the nine-capped England international is a top-class shot-stopper. His form has dipped over the past two years, but he still has what it takes to succeed at the highest level.

And let’s face it, he’s more than able to play Man United’s cup games this season. The major worry will be if De Gea suffers a serious injury that keeps him out of action for a prolonged period.

Is Butland good enough to play in the Premier League for United? No. With Champions League football well attainable for United this season, Ten Hag should be slightly more ambitious in his search for a back-up goalkeeper.