According to a report from Metro, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has identified the former Ajax goalkeeper as a long-term replacement for David de Gea at Old Trafford. Andre Onana has dropped hints indicating that he may be on the verge of leaving Inter Milan, as talks between the Italian club and United continue regarding his potential transfer.
The current offer from United for the Cameroon international is believed to be around £39 million, while Inter is seeking a fee closer to £51 million for their number-one goalkeeper. However, reports suggest that a compromise between the two clubs is likely to be reached. Onana himself has now suggested that a move could be imminent, adding fuel to the speculation surrounding his potential transfer.
Onana’s Solid Campaign In Italian Football Last Season
Andre Onana had a commendable campaign as Inter Milan’s first-choice goalkeeper, consistently delivering solid performances. The 27-year-old featured in 37 matches for the Italian club during the previous season, conceding only 30 goals and keeping 18 clean sheets across various competitions.
The Cameroonian shot-stopper showcased his skills with an average of 0.5 clearances and 6.1 long balls per 90 minutes in Serie A. Moreover, he displayed accuracy in his distribution, completing 79% of his attempted passes in top-flight football, according to statistics from Whoscored.
Onana’s current contract with Inter Milan is set to expire in the summer of 2027, indicating the difficulty Man United may face in securing his services during this transfer window. However, a compelling offer could persuade the Italian club to accept his departure this summer.
Is Onana A Viable Option For Manchester United?
Onana presents himself as a reliable option in goal, equipped with decent reflexes that enable him to make solid saves. He also possesses good ball-handling skills and can distribute the ball effectively when required.
With a height of 1.90m, the Cameroonian international exudes authority within his own penalty box. He deserves praise for his contributions to Inter Milan’s journey to the UEFA Champions League finals this season.
United would certainly benefit from a goalkeeper of Onana’s experience and skill set, as he could serve as a suitable replacement for David De Gea. At 27 years old, Onana has a promising future, making him an attractive option for the Red Devils to consider this summer.
However, there are legitimate concerns regarding Onana’s adaptation to Premier League football’s physicality and high intensity. Nevertheless, the advantages of recruiting a goalkeeper of his calibre outweigh the potential drawbacks. Thus, Man United would be wise to explore all possibilities to secure his services when the transfer window opens later this year.
