Manchester United have set their sights on Roma’s talented goalkeeper Mile Svilar as they look to bolster their squad in the upcoming summer transfer window. The 25-year-old Serbian international has emerged as a prime target for the Red Devils, who are reportedly seeking an alternative to their current shot-stopper, Andre Onana, whose performances have drawn mixed reviews since his arrival at Old Trafford.
Svilar, who joined Roma from Benfica in 2022, has steadily risen to prominence in Serie A, establishing himself as a reliable presence between the posts. His consistent performances under Roma’s manager Daniele De Rossi have not gone unnoticed, with the Belgian-born goalkeeper keeping 18 clean sheets in 48 matches this season while conceding 48 goals. His heroics in the Europa League, including saving two penalties in a shootout victory over Feyenoord in the 2023-24 knockout round play-offs, have further elevated his stock, making him a sought-after talent across Europe.
Sources indicate that Manchester United have been closely monitoring Svilar, with scouts dispatched to watch him in action as Roma push for a top-four finish in Serie A. The interest comes as part of United’s broader strategy to strengthen their squad under new management, with the goalkeeping position identified as an area for improvement. Reports suggest that the club is prepared to make a move for Svilar, who could be available for a fee in the region of €35-40 million, though Roma are keen to secure him with a new contract that includes a release clause exceeding €40 million.
The race for Svilar’s signature is heating up, with Premier League rivals Liverpool, Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Manchester City also linked with the young goalkeeper. Bayern Munich and Monaco have also expressed admiration, adding to the competition. Roma, aware of the growing interest, are in ongoing negotiations to extend Svilar’s contract, which runs until 2027. However, a significant gap remains between the club’s offer of €2 million per year and Svilar’s entourage’s demand of €4 million, potentially opening the door for a transfer.
Svilar’s journey to becoming one of Europe’s most promising goalkeepers has been marked by notable milestones. At just 18, he broke Iker Casillas’ record as the youngest goalkeeper to play in the Champions League during his time at Benfica, where he also became the youngest to save a penalty and, unfortunately, score an own goal in the competition against Manchester United. Despite early setbacks, his move to Roma has allowed him to flourish, and his versatility, reflexes, and composure have drawn praise from former managers like Jose Mourinho, who once described him as a “superhero” after facing him in 2017.