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Manchester United have confirmed that goalkeeper Altay Bayindir has left Old Trafford to join La Liga side Celta Vigo on a season-long loan. The Turkey international, who struggled for regular game time after moving to England, is heading to Spain in search of consistent first-team football under Claudio Giraldez.

Permanent option included in Spanish move

The Red Devils have formally approved a temporary departure for the 28-year-old goalkeeper, but the switch could soon turn into a full transfer. According to Manchester Evening News, Celta Vigo have obtained an option to make the deal permanent for £3.5 million next summer. United have also safeguarded their longer-term interests by inserting several performance-related bonuses and a significant sell-on clause if Celta later sell the goalkeeper at a profit.

Official club statement issued

The club's official statement confirmed the transfer and said: "Manchester United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir has agreed to join La Liga side Celta Vigo on loan for the duration of the 2026/27 season, subject to registration.

"The 28-year-old played six games for United last season, his third campaign since joining from Fenerbahce in 2023. Following his debut against Newport County in 2024, Altay has made 17 appearances in total for the club.

"Bayindir now heads to Spain to link up with Os Celestes, who finished sixth in La Liga last season under head coach Claudio Giraldez and are set to compete in this season's UEFA Europa League. Everyone at United wishes Altay the best of luck for the campaign ahead."

Bayindir's difficult spell at Old Trafford

Bayindir joined Manchester from Fenerbahce three years ago in a £4.3 million deal, arriving with a reputation as one of Turkey's most promising goalkeeping talents. However, he found it hard to dislodge the established first-choice options and ended his time at the club with only 17 appearances overall.

Although he briefly became the main option when former head coach Ruben Amorim initially removed Andre Onana from his plans, Bayindir was unable to hold on to the starting role. He eventually lost his place to Senne Lammens after a drop in form and was effectively left out of the starting XI for the rest of the campaign.

Michael Carrick leads goalkeeping reshuffle

Bayindir's departure is part of a broader reorganisation of the goalkeeping department under Michael Carrick. With Onana also leaving on loan to Trabzonspor, the club has moved to add experience by signing Karl Darlow on a free transfer from Leeds United. Young Czech goalkeeper Radek Vitek is also close to a permanent exit, with Middlesbrough in advanced talks to complete a deal for the 22-year-old.