Jan Oblak has long been courted by Manchester United.
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Manchester United are reportedly closing in on a shock move for Atlético Madrid goalkeeper Jan Oblak, in a deal that could not only reshape the Red Devils’ goalkeeping department but also throw a spanner in the works for Arsenal’s transfer strategy.
According to multiple sources, United are exploring the possibility of signing Oblak for a fee in the region of £21 million, a significant drop from his previous €100 million valuation.
The 31-year-old Slovenian shot-stopper has been a mainstay at Atlético for nearly a decade but is now deemed expendable due to his declining form and hefty £340,000-per-week wages.
Ruben Amorim is believed to be open to upgrading the goalkeeping department after a mixed debut season for André Onana.
While Oblak may not be a long-term solution, his experience and leadership at the back could offer stability during a crucial rebuilding phase at Old Trafford.
Other options on United’s radar reportedly include James Trafford of Burnley and Zion Suzuki of Parma, but Oblak’s pedigree makes him a standout target.
Atletico Madrid Set Sights on Arsenal Target Joan García
However, this potential transfer could create a ripple effect across Europe—particularly affecting Arsenal.
Atlético Madrid have identified Joan García of Espanyol as their ideal replacement for Oblak.
The 23-year-old Spaniard is seen as one of the brightest young goalkeepers in La Liga and has attracted interest from several top clubs, including Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and most notably, Arsenal.
The Gunners previously made an offer of around €20 million for García, but Espanyol rejected the bid, insisting that his €25 million release clause be met
Arsenal at Risk of Missing Out
Atlético are reportedly willing to match that valuation if Oblak departs, putting them in direct competition with Arsenal for the young goalkeeper’s signature.
This sudden twist places Arsenal in a vulnerable position.
Mikel Arteta’s side had been quietly confident of landing García as a long-term option between the posts, especially with questions lingering over the futures of Aaron Ramsdale and Matt Turner.
Losing out on García to a La Liga rival—triggered by United’s pursuit of Oblak—would be a double blow for the North London club.
Adding to the pressure, Espanyol manager Luis García recently lauded the young shot-stopper’s potential, likening his rise to that of Lionel Messi, calling García “a generational talent.”
Strategic Implications for the Premier League
This potential domino effect highlights the increasingly interconnected nature of the European transfer market.
For Manchester United, signing Oblak would not only strengthen their own squad but also disrupt a direct rival’s plans—an added bonus as they look to reestablish themselves at the top of English football.
