Manchester United have thrown a curveball into the goalkeeping market, submitting an offer worth close to $8 million for Paraguay’s World Cup sensation Orlando Gill. The 26-year-old San Lorenzo shot-stopper has emerged as a surprise target midway through the summer window, according to D Sports Radio 103.1 FM — though San Lorenzo themselves are yet to actually receive the bid.

From Albirroja Hero to Old Trafford Target

Gill’s stock has rocketed since Paraguay’s stunning run to the World Cup’s round of 16, capped by a penalty shootout win over Germany. His standout display came in a losing effort against France, where he still walked away with the player-of-the-match award. Since joining San Lorenzo from his homeland in January 2024, he’s racked up 59 appearances, 29 clean sheets, and conceded just 44 goals — numbers that have Europe’s scouts circling.

So Why Do United Need Another Keeper?

Here’s where it gets strange. United already secured Karl Darlow on a free this summer, giving Michael Carrick a settled first-choice pairing alongside Tom Heaton as backup. Add in Andre Onana’s loan exit to Trabzonspor and Altay Bayindir’s expected Besiktas move, and the goalkeeping department looks all but finished business.

A Wasted Pursuit — Or a Hidden Agenda?

With San Lorenzo still waiting on paperwork and Aston Villa reportedly circling too, Gill’s next move is far from settled. But the real question isn’t where he lands — it’s why United, seemingly stocked between the sticks, are even in this race at all. Are they hedging against a Darlow injury, or is something else brewing behind the scenes at Old Trafford?