Japanese goalkeeper Zion Suzuki ‘SNUBS Man Utd transfer’ for bizarre reason despite being scouted for SIX YEARS

9 months ago 87

JAPANESE keeper Zion Suzuki has rejected a move to Manchester United because he has one eye on the Olympic Games next summer, according to reports.

The 20-year-old has been monitored by the Red Devils for SIX YEARS, ever since he emerged as a promising young teenager.

Earlier this month, it was claimed Man Utd were closing in on a £5million deal to bring him to Old Trafford from Urawa Red Diamonds.

That would have made him the most expensive player in J-League history.

But according to Sponichi, Suzuki has declined the proposal from the Premier League giants.

This is because he is looking to prioritise playing time ahead of the Paris Olympic Games in 2024.

Suzuki would be second or third choice at Man Utd following the signing of Andre Onana from Inter Milan for £47m.

Erik ten Hag is also looking at Fenerbahce shot-stopper Altay Bayindir.

But competition for places in between the sticks means they are set to miss out on Suzuki as he cannot be guaranteed game time.

He is a Japanese youth international and has kept 11 clean sheets in 28 senior appearances for the Reds.

The American-born stopper was also part of the side which won the Asian Champions League in 2022.

Meanwhile, Man Utd are currently on a pre-season tour of the US – where they beat Arsenal on Saturday.

They have matches scheduled against Wrexham, Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund, before returning to Old Trafford for a clash with Lens.

Their Premier League campaign gets underway at home to Wolves on August 14.