Mary Earps: Inside the Future of England's Star Goalkeeper at Manchester United
England goalkeeper Mary Earps stays at Manchester United for now, declining a world-record offer from Arsenal Will she leave in January? Who could replace her? Stay tuned for the new WSL season starting on October 1, live on Sky Sports
Manchester United has decided to retain Mary Earps and not entertain any offers for her during this transfer window, indicating that she will remain with the club for now. However, despite this decision, there continues to be speculation regarding the future of the English goalkeeper. Arsenal had recently made a groundbreaking offer, setting a new world record for a goalkeeper in women's football, which was turned down by United. It is noteworthy that Earps' contract with United will expire next summer.
United faces the challenge of persuading her to remain dedicated to the club in the long run. What unfolds next? Can United succeed in convincing the Lionesses goalkeeper to stay? Will she depart in January or become a free agent next summer? And if she does decide to leave, will it be for Arsenal or another club that expresses interest?
We News reporter Anton Toloui answers the key questions on Earps' future...
Why does Earps want to leave Man Utd?
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Manchester United faces the daunting task of persuading her to extend her commitment to the club, as negotiations for a new contract have been dragging on for over a year without any significant progress.
She is striving to be recognized as the finest goalkeeper globally, aspiring for appropriate remuneration and reverence, positioning herself as a prominent figure not only within the club but also across the league. Additionally, the Manchester United project is a consideration.
Could Earps leave in January?
What lies ahead for Manchester United after Alessia Russo and Ona Batlle depart? Will Geyse Da Silva Ferreira and the new signings make a significant mark? Can the team secure a top position in the league and clinch major silverware?
Man Utd have turned down big money previously in the window and any team who wanted to sign Earps had to not just break but smash the world record for a women's player.
United is relying on themselves to persuade the Earps that Manchester United is the ideal destination, emphasizing that the new players will seamlessly integrate and that United is progressing instead of regressing. However, two of their players are absent, placing significant pressure on Geyse, Hinata Miyazawa, Irene Guerrero, and the incoming players to quickly harmonize and pose a challenge to Chelsea. The outcome of United's season start will be pivotal in determining Earps' future.
If United stumble in their early title challenge - with only 22 games in the WSL, falling behind early makes it challenging to recover and mount a title challenge - then United will hope to avoid a situation similar to Alessia Russo's, where they rejected a significant offer for her and subsequently lost her to their rivals, Arsenal, without receiving any transfer fee.
Who could replace Earps?
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Manchester United is targeting Phallon Tullis-Joyce as a potential transfer.
In consideration of their need for a senior goalkeeper, Man Utd has been exploring options for a number one choice. Aware of the possibility of Mary Earps departing next season, they are actively seeking experienced senior goalkeepers.
The desired player is Phallon Tullis-Joyce from OL Reign, who has excelled in recent seasons. Her acquisition is valued at approximately £100,000, indicating a strong belief in her talent and a willingness to invest in her.
Upon arrival, she will compete for the starting goalkeeper position this season. If Mary Earps departs, Tullis-Joyce has a promising opportunity to secure the No 1 position in the following season.
Why do Arsenal want Earps?
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Mary Earps holds the Golden Glove trophy after the Women's World Cup final
Being the top goalkeeper globally, she perfectly aligns with Arsenal's strategy of making significant signings and nurturing young talents for their development.
Although Manuela Zinsberger recently agreed to a contract extension, her current deal will expire at the end of this season. Therefore, Arsenal is already planning ahead for the next two or three years. Recognizing her exceptional skills, they see no reason not to acquire her. Additionally, weakening their competitors adds a touch of amusement to the situation.
If players similar to Earps become available, clubs such as Arsenal will show interest. However, the lack of Champions League football has greatly affected Arsenal, leading them to consider signing players in other positions, given that they already have a talented goalkeeper in Zinsberger.
Is anyone else interested in Earps?
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Mary Earps makes a crucial save from Jennifer Hermoso's penalty during the World Cup. Numerous clubs have shown keen interest in her. Previously, a substantial bid was made for her, which Manchester United rejected. It is well-known that Arsenal has consistently expressed their interest throughout the transfer window.
Other clubs are vying for Earps, aware that securing her signature would require a lucrative contract offer, leading them to hesitate on investing a significant sum as a transfer fee.
Anticipate numerous prominent clubs to express interest in acquiring Earps next summer, particularly if she becomes available as a free agent.
WSL begins on October 1
The WSL kicks off on Sunday, October 1 with an exciting lineup of six matches. One of the highlights will be the clash between reigning champions Chelsea and Tottenham, which will be broadcast live on We at 5.30pm.
A number of WSL teams have already commenced their pre-season training, and it is expected that England players will rejoin their respective squads in the coming weeks. Following their club commitments, they will regroup for the Nations League.
How to follow on Sky Sports' digital platforms
The Lionesses' victory in the European Championship last year led to an unprecedented surge in ticket sales across the WSL. Expectations are high that the team's successful World Cup campaign, where they made it to the final, will attract even greater attention and viewership to the league.Stay up-to-date with the latest news, features, and interviews from the Women's Super League on SkySports.com and our app. Enjoy live blog coverage and in-game clips from matches broadcasting live on We. Additionally, catch free match highlights from every WSL game this season on We's digital platforms and YouTube channel. Don't miss any action as all matches will be accessible on We Football and Sky Showcase, ensuring a wider audience for the competition, even without a We package.
In addition to featuring the league on all We' main social media channels, the dedicated Twitter account @SkySportsWSL remains the go-to destination for all Barclays FA WSL content on We.
The We WSL TikTok account offers fans comprehensive coverage of the league, providing exclusive access to their newly beloved players. Through engaging challenges, interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage, viewers will have the opportunity to acquaint themselves with the diverse personalities of WSL and see the sport from fresh perspectives.
Meanwhile, fans can also keep up to date with everything on and off the pitch with the return of Three Players and a Podcast, hosted by Caroline Barker.
Key dates for the 2023/24 season
