Manchester United are plotting a surprise summer move for Blackburn Rovers goalkeeper Aynsley Pears as Ruben Amorim seeks homegrown reinforcements to bolster his faltering squad. The 26-year-old, who has kept 13 clean sheets in 35 Championship appearances this season, has emerged as a budget-friendly target to challenge Andre Onana and address United’s looming homegrown quota crisis. Though not directly threatening Onana at this level, Pears may end up as United’s second choice ahead of the summer transfer window.
With veteran Tom Heaton likely retiring and Altay Bayindir linked to an exit, United’s third goalkeeper slot must be filled by a domestic player under Premier League rules. Pears, born in Durham, fits the bill. The Blackburn stopper boasts a 75% save rate, anchoring a defence that’s conceded just 35 goals, third-best in the Championship. United’s scout Tony Coton has tracked Pears closely, per The Sun, with the report stating that Manchester United are looking for a home-grown keeper for the next season and Blackburn’s Aynsley Pears is on the shortlist.
Onana’s Errors
Andre Onana’s error-strewn campaign has left Amorim sceptical. Despite moments of brilliance, the Cameroonian has shipped 39 goals in 27 league games, fuelling doubts. Former United defender Gary Pallister didn’t hold back: “I don’t like goalkeepers that take a chance! I’m an old-school centre-half... I’d prefer my goalkeeper to dominate the box, be decisive and make good saves.” Pallister even lamented David de Gea’s exit: “He was released too early.”
Pears offers a low-risk alternative. Valued at just €1.5 million, his arrival wouldn’t dent the budget reserved for priority targets in the summer. Although Pears is unlikely to get the No. 1 spot, he provides a good cover as a backup. For Blackburn, cashing in now makes sense, Pears’ contract runs until 2027, and his departure could fund their promotion push.
Family Roots
Pears’ connection to United runs deeper than a mere transfer. His father, Stephen, made five appearances for the club in the late 1970s. That legacy, paired with his affordability, makes him a sentimental and strategic pick for United. While Burnley’s James Trafford is also on United’s radar, his £15 million price tag pushes Pears ahead in the pecking order.
Amorim’s rebuild hinges on calculated moves, not marquee signings. Pears’ signing would tick multiple boxes: homegrown compliance, budget preservation, and added pressure on Onana to step up.