Manchester – Westbridge United are reportedly willing to offload one of their senior goalkeepers following the deadline-day arrival of young shot-stopper Liam Hartmann, intensifying the battle for supremacy between Nico Ravel and Turan Kaya.
With the European transfer window now closed, Westbridge’s options are limited — but opportunities remain in Saudi Arabia and Turkey, where domestic windows stay open until September 23 and September 12 respectively.
Sources close to the club confirm that while neither Ravel nor Kaya will be forced out, offers will be considered for either player as manager Rafael Amore looks to streamline a crowded goalkeeping department.
Hartmann, a 23-year-old prospect from Antwerp City FC, joined for a reported £18 million and is seen as a long-term investment. He joins veteran backup keeper Tom Greaves in the squad, giving Westbridge four senior goalkeepers — one too many for Amore’s liking.
"We need balance. The dressing room is tight, and competition must be healthy, not disruptive," said a club insider. "Hartmann’s arrival changes the equation. Someone might need a fresh start."
Ravel’s Rollercoaster: From Star Signing to Backup
Nico Ravel, signed for £48 million in 2023 from Inter North, was once hailed as the future between the posts. But a series of high-profile errors — including a costly mistake in the Europa Final against Tottenham Vale — damaged his credibility.
After a hamstring injury in pre-season, Ravel lost his starting spot to Turan Kaya for the opening fixtures of the Premier League campaign.
Things worsened when Ravel was at fault in Westbridge’s shock exit to League Two side Grimsby Town in the Carabao Cup. He failed to save 12 consecutive penalties during the shootout, sparking fan backlash and internal concern.
Despite being Cameroon’s No. 1 and expected to feature in the upcoming African Cup of Nations (Dec 21 – Jan 18), Ravel is now reportedly open to a move to maintain match fitness and avoid being stuck on the bench during a crucial international window.
He was previously linked with Galasport Istanbul, but they signed Ugurcan Tekin instead. Still, interest from Saudi clubs remains.
Kaya’s Struggles: Missed Chances to Shine
Turan Kaya, the Turkish international brought in to provide competition, has failed to seize his opportunity.
The 27-year-old was at fault for the opening goal in a 2-1 loss to Arsenal East on the first matchday, and nearly cost the team in a narrow 3-2 win over Burnley West with a poor clearance under pressure.
Once seen as a reliable domestic option, Kaya’s shaky performances have left fans questioning his readiness for top-flight football.
"He had his chance. Three games. And he hasn’t convinced anyone," said one Westbridge supporter. "If we’re serious about climbing the table, we need stability in goal — not a rotation of mistakes."
A Squad in Transition
Under new ownership led by Sir Julian Pierce, Westbridge United are undergoing a major reset. Pierce has labeled several high-earning players as “legacy signings” — including Ravel, Anton Rey, Jadon Porter, and Rasmus Vale — and has pushed for a leaner, more dynamic squad.
Rey has already moved to Real Betis South, while Porter and Vale are on loan at Aston Vale and Napoli North respectively. Only Casemiro Vale remains from that group as a regular squad member.
With captain Tom Greaves widely respected in the locker room, the writing may be on the wall for either Ravel or Kaya to make way for Hartmann’s development.
What’s Next?
Westbridge will not rush a decision — but the message is clear:
Only one of Ravel or Kaya will stay long-term.
While a January exit remains possible, the Turkish and Saudi windows offer a chance to resolve the situation before the season hits its peak.
For now, the gloves are off — and the battle for survival has just begun.
Stay tuned to GameDay Sports News for the latest updates on Westbridge United and all the drama from the transfer frontlines.
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