Manchester United Dugout

Hugo Lloris who has been linked with a move to Manchester United is considered one of Europe's top young keepers. Since making his debut in October 2005, the Frenchman has been making serious impacts in Europe and has been a target of Manchester United.

Hugo Lloris was linked with Tottenham in 2008. He even turned down an offer from AC Milan only to join Lyon in the summer of 2008 for €8.5million. Though Lyon missed out on their league title in 2008, Lloris was still crowned Ligue 1's Goalkeeper of the Year. He was placed third in France Football's 2009 French Player of the Year award (behind Nicolas Anelka and Yoann Gourcuff).

So what makes Hugo Lloris the best goalkeeper in Europe?

His stats and accolades are impressive considering he is only 23, but his performances are the real reason why he’s the best goalkeeper in Europe. Watch this video and you’ll realize why Hugo Lloris is the top shot-stopper.

Manchester United is planning a £20million transfer swoop for French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris. The tall 23-year-old is the best long-term replacement for Edwin van der Sar, according to Sir Alex Ferguson.

Hugo Lloris has consistently excelled in his duties for French side Lyon and his excellent performances in the Champions League ensured that Liverpool missed out on qualifying for the knockout stages. Fergie could make a major splash when the transfer window opens on Friday.

The only problem in signing Lloris is his greedy club Lyon. Remember how United had a tough time dealing with the French club when they courted Karim Benzema, who eventually landed in Madrid. Also they are wealthy and would definitely like to pocket huge amount from Manchester United for their top shot-stopper.

Manchester United need a top goalie immediately as Ben Foster and Tomasz Kuszczak have both failed to impress this season. Sir Alex Ferguson would ideally like a new keeper next month, but he will also be ready to wait until the summer to make sure United do not overspend on a player. However, the departure of VDS to attend his wife must be worrying Fergie and adding more urgency to sign Lloris.

The need for a new goalie at Old Trafford has been stressed all this season and Manchester United were linked with Igor Akinfeev who was touted to become the next Schmeichel. Fergie is a fan of the Russian keeper, but Hugo Lloris too is an impressive player. He has represented France at all age groups, and was an ever-present in France's 2005 European Under-19 Football Championship winning side.

The last French keeper we had was Fabian Barthez who was an absolute disaster. But Hugo Lloris is considered one of Europe's top young keepers and United are tracking his progress. If he arrives at Old Trafford, he could become the top shot-stopper for the Red Devils for a decade.