OFFICIAL: Celta sign Bayindir

R.C. Celta de Vigo

The goalkeeping department of Celta  adds a new name. The Vigo club have agreed the arrival of Altay Bayindir, the Manchester United goalkeeper, a signing that follows an express request from Claudio Giráldez to raise the level of competition in goal.

The Turkish international, aged 28, has barely had a starring role since arriving at Old Trafford in 2023 from Fenerbahçe. In three seasons he only played 17 official matches, a very low figure for a goalkeeper who arrived with the label of one of the best in Turkey. Of those games, ten were in the Premier League, although he was never able to establish himself as a real alternative in the squad.

Bayindir stands out for his height, with 1.98 metres, and for his ability to dominate the aerial game. He is a goalkeeper with good reflexes, used to intervening in one-on-one situations, and with the personality to take responsibility in matches with the highest demands. He has also shown his ability to save penalties, one of the most striking aspects of his career.

Giráldez has already given the go-ahead for the deal and has even held talks with the player to explain the project. The coach's intention is for him to compete directly with Ionu? Radu for the starting spot, while the future of Iván Villar remains unresolved, who could leave before the transfer window closes or stay on as the third-choice goalkeeper.

The arrival of Bayindir adds to a very busy summer at Balaídos. After completing the signings of Aleix Febas and Javi Galán, Celta are also finalising the capture of Senegalese centre-back Abdoulaye Faye. The club would only have left to strengthen the attacking area before effectively closing their squad for the new season.