Manchester United are looking to provide first choice goalkeeper David De Gea with competition and Southampton shot-stopper Alex McCarthy has been 'identified' as a target at Old Trafford, according to talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook.

The Red Devils grabbed their first win of the Erik ten Hag era when they overcame arch-rivals Liverpool on Monday, but the Dutchman - who was appointed as their new boss in April - could dip into the transfer market ahead of the September 1 deadline.

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What's the latest news involving McCarthy?

According to The Sun, Manchester United are keeping tabs on McCarthy and may head to Southampton with a proposal before the window slams shut.

The report suggests the one-cap England international has made his way onto ten Hag's shortlist of targets as he looks to secure a back-up option to De Gea.

Although McCarthy's £50,000-per-week Southampton contract is not due to expire until the summer of 2025, it appears that Manchester United could succeed in their shock pursuit.

That is because Crook has previously told GIVEMESPORT that Saints are willing to sell the 32-year-old and remain hopeful of finding a buyer ahead of the transfer deadline.

McCarthy, who has made more than 280 appearances over the course of his senior club career, has failed to secure a single minute of Premier League action so far this season.

What has Alex Crook said about McCarthy?

Crook understands that Manchester United chief ten Hag still has his sights set on welcoming another goalkeeper to Old Trafford.

The talkSPORT reporter believes McCarthy is among the names who could be drafted in during the final days of the transfer window.

Crook told GIVEMESPORT: "I think the plan, at the moment, is still to bring in an understudy.

"McCarthy was mentioned to me a few weeks ago as someone who they have possibly identified."

What are Manchester United's current goalkeeper options?

Having allowed Dean Henderson to join newly-promoted Nottingham Forest on a season-long loan, ten Hag has been left with two senior shot-stoppers.

De Gea has made the number one jersey his own over the years, having racked up 490 appearances.

Ten Hag has stood by the 31-year-old, who has played every minute of Manchester United's season so far.

Tom Heaton, who sealed his return to Old Trafford last year, is currently providing back-up to De Gea.

The former Burnley goalkeeper's solitary outing for the Red Devils came in a Champions League group stage stalemate with Young Boys last season.