Promising young goalkeeper Zion Suzuki has opened up about his decision to reject a transfer to Manchester United.

In the summer of 2023, United agreed a fee with Urawa Red Diamonds to sign Suzuki on a permanent transfer but he rejected the move and joined Belgian side Sint-Truiden on loan.

David de Gea had left United after his contract expired and Andre Onana was signed to replace the Spaniard, but United wanted Suzuki to become their reserve goalkeeper.

However, United felt Suzuki needed two more years before he was ready to have an impact in the Premier League and he rejected a move to Manchester because he wanted regular starts. Suzuki now plays in Italy's top-flight and he's building a reputation as an exciting young goalkeeper.

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The 22-year-old has started every game except one - he was suspended - for Parma Calcio this season and he's playing a crucial role in helping his side establish themselves in Serie A.

Suzuki recently spoke to La Repubblica to reflect on his rise and he opened up about his decision to reject United. "Is it true that I turned down offers from Chelsea and Manchester United? When I was in Japan, the Premier League wanted me," said the Japan international.

"But in Belgium I would have played more. I’m happy with my choice. Serie A is known around the world for the quality of its goalkeepers. I dream of becoming the best goalkeeper in the world.

"I also want to win the Champions League. I have that on the same level as winning the World Cup with Japan. Something very difficult, only seen in cartoons, but never say never.”

Suzuki has previously left the door open for a move to the Premier League in the future and has admitted his "dream" is to play in England's top division at some stage of his career.

"There are still no Japanese who are active as goalkeepers in the Premier League, so I want to be one of the first players to do so. I want to keep moving forward step by step," he said.

Onana is considered by many to have been United's most consistent performer in the calendar year of 2024 but he made a huge mistake for Nottingham Forest's second goal at the weekend.

Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton are United's reserve goalkeepers. Bayindir has made just a handful of appearances for the club and continues to be linked with a move away.

Heaton signed a one-year contract extension in the summer and will be 39 when his deal expires.