Woodman was due to join Bournemouth in the summer, only for Steve Bruce to block the deal with Martin Dubravka sidelined following foot surgery and Karl Darlow struggling with the after-effects of Covid-19. Bruce ended up taking the “unprecedented” step of naming four goalkeepers in his 25-man Premier League squad.
Howe needs to make room in that squad for one or more arrivals in next month’s transfer window, and 24-year-old Woodman – who started the season between the posts – could belatedly be loaned out.
"In terms of the goalkeepers, we've got a really talented group of keepers,” said United’s head coach. "It was unfortunate that both the experienced goalkeepers were injured, and it probably meant that opportunities for one of the younger guys to go on loan was then potentially stopped.
"That’s something we will evaluate in January, because we don't want to harm anyone's development."

. NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 17: A detailed view of the Nike Strike Aerowsculpt Official Premier League match ball is seen on a No Room for Racism plinth prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur at St. James Park on October 17, 2021 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Nike Strike Aerowsculpt Official Premier League match ball (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) Photo: Stu Forster

. Rangnick plays down Lamptey links
New Manchester United boss Ralf Rangnick has played down rumours of his side making a winter move for Albion defender Tariq Lamptey. (The Argus) (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images) Photo: Mike Hewitt

1. Rangnick plays down Lamptey links
New Manchester United boss Ralf Rangnick has played down rumours of his side making a winter move for Albion defender Tariq Lamptey. (The Argus) (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images) Photo: Mike Hewitt

2. AC Milan eye Mina
AC Milan are eyeing a 'juicy deal' for Everton defender Yerry Mina to replace Simon Kjaer, with their interest in the Colombian a longstanding one. (Calcio Mercato) (Photo by Guillermo Legaria/Getty Images) Photo: Guillermo Legaria

3. Hammers hold advantage in Hlozek race
West Ham United hold a big advantage in the race to sign Sparta Prague striker Adam Hlozek. (90min) (Photo by MICHAL CIZEK/AFP via Getty Images) Photo: MICHAL CIZEK

4. Galatasaray want Trezeguet
Galatasaray are interested in making a move for Aston Villa winger Mahmoud Trezeguet. (Takvim) (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) Photo: Catherine Ivill