Manchester United eye shock transfer for ex-Newcastle United player | OneFootball

Manchester United are planning a shock swoop for former Newcastle goalkeeper Freddie Woodman, who could return to the Premier League this summer.

Freddie Woodman was once seen as the long-term future between the sticks at Newcastle United. He came through the youth ranks, won the Under-20 World Cup with England, and was widely tipped for greatness. But after several loan spells and just nine senior appearances for the Magpies, he finally left St James’ Park for good in 2022.

Now, two years later, the shot-stopper is attracting interest from one of England’s biggest clubs.

Man United want ex-Magpies man to bolster homegrown quota

According to the latest Newcastle transfer news from Football Insider, Manchester United are working on a deal to bring Freddie Woodman to Old Trafford on a free transfer this summer. The 28-year-old is out of contract with Preston North End in June and has emerged as a strong candidate to replace Tom Heaton as United’s third-choice goalkeeper.

The Red Devils are eager to improve their homegrown quota ahead of the 2025–26 campaign, and Woodman fits that requirement perfectly. Despite leaving Newcastle for regular football at Preston, he could now find himself back in the Premier League – though in a different role.

Woodman has been a key figure at Preston over the past two seasons. He has made 44 appearances this term, kept 17 clean sheets, and conceded just 48 goals. His consistency and experience in the Championship – where he has played over 200 games – make him a safe and reliable option as a backup at the top level.

Newcastle’s academy graduate earns Premier League interest once again

Freddie Woodman’s journey has come full circle. From Newcastle’s academy, to spells at Swansea, Bournemouth, and Preston, to now being linked with Manchester United – the England youth international could finally get another chance to play on the big stage.

It is a reminder of the talent Newcastle produced during that era, even if not all of it was realised on Tyneside.

Whether this move materialises remains to be seen, but the interest from Old Trafford speaks volumes about Woodman’s development since leaving Newcastle. If it goes through, it could be a clever bit of business by United – and another chapter in the story of a Magpie who never quite got his moment at St James’ Park.