Safe pair of hands is support for De Gea

UNITED are expected to sign Lee Grant as their third-choice goalkeeper for next season.

Grant, 35, played twice against United the season before last for Stoke and was praised by Jose Mourinho after making a string of fine saves in a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford.

Grant also started in the reverse fixture at the Britannia that campaign, which also ended 1-1.

United have searched for a back-up option to David de Gea and Sergio Romero so their academy goalkeepers can leave on loan.

Dean Henderson joined Sheffield United on a season-long loan shortly after signing a new contract this month and the M.E.N. previously reported last season’s number three Joel Pereira will be allowed to head out on loan.

Under-23 goalkeeper Kieran O’Hara could also get regular playing time in the Football League and Sam Johnstone, who recently returned from a successful 18-month spell with Aston Villa, has already outlined his intention to leave United permanently.

Sources say Grant’s role will be similar to Richard Wright’s at City, in that he is unlikely to get any game-time but his professionalism will ensure United have reasonable cover for De Gea and Romero.

United could also be open to drafting Grant onto the coaching staff.

Former England international Wright joined City in 2012 and spent four years on the playing staff without making an appearance for the club but was kept on by Pep Guardiola as a goalkeeping coach.