Transfer Talk: Man Utd ready to pounce for Petrovic

Manchester United have been linked with a surprise move for New England Revolution goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic. 

The Serbia international was signed to replace Matt Turner last year after his switch to Arsenal — and could now follow the American's footsteps to the Premier League. 

Named the Revs' 2022 MVP, the 23-year-old's shot-stopping ability has caught the eye ahead of a likely return to Europe this summer. 

We take a look at what Petrovic would bring to Old Trafford if he were to join the Red Devils.

Great potential

After tying Petrovic down to a new deal last October, New England Revolution boss Bruce Arena revealed that he was convinced of the goalkeeper's talent almost immediately. 

He said: "[Petrovic] was one of the easier players we've ever brought in because I couldn't have spent more than three to five minutes watching him on tape and thinking he could be a real good one. 

"We proceeded very quickly to try and sign him.

"He plays with a lot of confidence and he gives the guys in front of him a lot of confidence.

"I'll tell you this, [Petrovic] is going to be a good one."

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European ambitions

Arena may not have Petrovic for as many years as he might have hoped, however — given the custodian's dream of making his name in European football. 

He said: "My goal is to eventually go back to Europe and sign for some of the major teams there. 

"But this is a good experience for me. I signed a new contract and I will definitely stay here to get more experience." 

And Petrovic has received praise from his predecessor too, with Turner saying: "[From] what I've seen from him, he's really talented.

"He's way more talented than I was at his age. He's taller than me. He's athletic."

Room for improvement

Petrovic has kept six clean sheets in 18 Major League Soccer outings this term, helping Arena's men to second in the Eastern Conference standings, chasing leaders FC Cincinnati.

But as Premier League 2022-23 Golden Glove David de Gea knows, Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag is not only focused on a keeper's shot-stopping credentials.

Petrovic may need to refine his ability in possession, completing fewer passes per 90 minutes in 2023 (21.7) than his Spanish counterpart did last season (22.8).

Ten Hag's targets

According to reports in the Manchester Evening News, Old Trafford chiefs are yet to table a bid for the Serbian sensation.

Inter Milan keeper Andre Onana, Porto talent Diogo Costa and Valencia sensation Giorgi Mamardashvili are all thought to be ahead of Petrovic in Ten Hag's wish list.

This is in main part due to their European experience and pedigree.

But with Petrovic continuing to impress in Massachusetts, it will surely not be long before he is ready to make the leap across the pond.