Report: Barcelona and Manchester United eyeing RSL goalkeeper David Ochoa
Europe’s elite teams are tracking the Real Salt Lake goalkeeper, who will become a free agent at the end of the 2022 MLS campaign.
David Ochoa had a breakout season with Real Salt Lake last year and played a key role in the team’s historic run in the 2021 MLS Cup playoffs, which ended in the Western Conference Final after a 2-0 defeat against the Portland Timbers. The young goalkeeper was tipped for a bright future with RSL but he has not yet featured in the 2022 MLS season after 22 games.
“For those of you asking... yes I’m still an RSL player,” Ochoa wrote on his Instagram account earlier this month. “I’m just not allowed to train with the team.” The 21-year-old has only played in the US Open Cup with the first team this season and he has been spending the majority of his time with the Real Monarchs, the reserve team of the Utah-based club.
Ochoa will leave RSL at the end of the season
Real Salt Lake’s general manager, Elliot Fall, told KUTV that injuries during the off-season prevented Ochoa from joining the first team and that he is still trying to get back in shape. The reality is that the 21-year-old will become a free agent at the end of the season and there are several teams keen on signing the talented keeper, especially on a free transfer.
Several reports indicate that Barcelona, Manchester United and Monaco are keeping an eye on Ochoa, who will become available during the winter transfer window. Liga MX could be another option for the 21-year-old with Club América, Tijuana and Atlético San Luis monitoring his situation with the MLS side.