Manchester United are tracking Brighton goalkeeper Carl Rushworth as they assess their long term options between the posts.
The 24-year-old, currently on loan at Coventry City, could emerge as a serious target if Brighton reshuffle this summer.
Manchester United monitoring Carl Rushworth
United have been monitoring Rushworth for several months, with recruitment staff keeping a close eye on his development in the Championship.
Rushworth is contracted to Brighton & Hove Albion until 2027, placing the Seagulls in a strong negotiating position. However, uncertainty surrounding the future of current number one Bart Verbruggen could reshape the picture at the Amex.
Brighton are aware of growing interest in Verbruggen from elsewhere in Europe. If he departs, the club are prepared to promote from within rather than reinvest heavily in the transfer market. Rushworth is viewed internally as a legitimate successor despite not yet making a senior appearance for the first team.
United’s interest is believed to centre on adding depth and competition. The club are reviewing their goalkeeping department ahead of the summer window, and Rushworth’s profile, age and experience make him an attractive option.
Built on loans and consistency
Rushworth has accumulated significant senior experience through a series of loan spells. He featured prominently for Walsall in League Two before stepping up with Lincoln City during the 2022 to 2023 League One campaign, making 42 league appearances.
A move to Swansea City followed, where he made 46 Championship appearances and won both the club’s Supporters’ Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year awards. After a short spell with Hull City, he joined Coventry City for the 2025 to 2026 season and has established himself as first choice.
Across his various loans, Rushworth has surpassed 200 senior appearances in all competitions, a notable tally for a goalkeeper still only 24.
Decision point approaching
Brighton’s stance will be key. With his contract running until 2027, they are under no immediate pressure to sell. If Verbruggen remains, however, Rushworth may seek clarity over his long-term pathway.
For Manchester United, the situation represents an opportunity rather than a necessity. Whether they formalise their interest may depend on Brighton’s internal decision-making and the wider goalkeeping market.
What is clear is that Rushworth’s next move, whether at the Amex or elsewhere, is likely to define the next stage of his career.
