Onana’s Future in Doubt
Uncertainty persists regarding André Onana’s future with Manchester United. According to recent reports, head coach Rúben Amorim is considering selling the goalkeeper as early as this summer.
Onana’s Transfer and Performance
United secured the services of the 28-year-old Cameroonian goalkeeper from Inter Milan in July 2023, with the transfer costing a reported €57 million. His reputation preceded him as one of the world’s elite goalkeepers, especially for his distribution skills, which led to high hopes upon his arrival at Manchester United as David de Gea’s successor. Despite the high hopes surrounding his arrival, his time in England has not yet fulfilled its promise.
Potential Exit and Saudi Arabian Interest
According to a report in The Sun, Onana’s future at Old Trafford is uncertain, with a potential move away during the summer transfer period after almost two years at the club. Rumors indicate interest from Saudi Arabian clubs. Amorim is reportedly open to letting him go if a suitable offer arrives.
Errors and Criticism
This Premier League season, Onana has made eight errors that have directly resulted in goals in 29 games.. He needs just one more mistake in the remaining nine games to match his unwanted record from last season. Previously, Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe publicly stated that Onana and several other players are overpaid.
Possible Replacements: Lammens and Chevalier
Manchester United is evaluating a range of potential successors to Onana. Two prominent names being considered are Senne Lammens from Belgian side Royal Antwerp and Lucas Chevalier from French club Lille. Adding to the intrigue, Manchester City is reportedly also keeping an eye on both goalkeepers, suggesting they might be planning for Ederson’s potential departure. Like Onana, the Brazilian goalkeeper has also been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia.
Growing Interest in Lammens
Manchester United continues to keep a close eye on 22-year-old Senne Lammens. The club is once again considering signing him this summer. The young Belgian goalkeeper’s form has been impressive this season, and Rúben Amorim identifies him as a prospective replacement for Onana, amongst a pool of candidates.
Goalkeeper Market and Manchester United’s Plans
Manchester United’s recruitment team is actively analyzing the goalkeeper market in advance of the summer transfer period. Doubts surrounding André Onana are growing, and Amorim appears ready to part ways with the Cameroonian shot-stopper. The club’s interest in Lammens could soon turn into a concrete offer. Rumors suggest that Royal Antwerp values their goalkeeper at around €36 million, a price that may force the Red Devils to reconsider their plans.
Alternative Options and Conclusion
If Manchester United secures a significant transfer fee for Onana, the club might pursue a more experienced and high-profile goalkeeper, such as Mike Maignan. A significant financial investment in a nascent and comparatively inexperienced goalkeeper such as Lammens might be construed by the club’s management as a move fraught with risk. As a result, the goalkeeping position remains one of the biggest uncertainties heading into the upcoming summer transfer window.
