Goalkeeper explains why he rejected 'dream' Manchester United transfer offer

Zion Suzuki has outlined his ambition to play in the Premier League but felt as though Manchester United’s summer approach came too soon for him.

As reported by the Manchester Evening News in August, United had reached an agreement with Japanese club Urawa Red Diamonds but the 21-year-old turned down the opportunity as he believes he needs several years of further development before he is ready for the Premier League.

Erik ten Hag had already landed Andre Onana at the time of United’s approach and Suzuki was eager to play minutes, rather than sit on the bench as a back-up goalkeeper. The Reds instead turned attention to Altay Bayindir, who arrived from Fenerbahce on deadline day.

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Suzuki, meanwhile, opted for a move to Belgian outfit Sint-Truiden and has already played four times as their No.1. The US-born Japanese shot-stopper has now confirmed the reasons behind his decision to decline United’s hand.

“My dream is to play in the English Premier League,” Suzuki insisted when speaking to soccerdigestweb.com. “It's true that I received an offer from Manchester United, but United have acquired Onana this season, so I want to play at a level where I can play.

“When I thought about it, I decided that it would be quite difficult. Even if I can't go there now, I definitely want to go there in a few years. In order to steadily advance, I have decided to transfer to Belgium this time.''

The summer transfer window saw a hive of goalkeeper activity at United, with Onana replacing David de Gea who is still a free agent following his 12 years at Old Trafford. Dean Henderson was sold to Crystal