David De Gea’s departure from Manchester United has been confirmed, making it more obvious than ever that the English giants need a new goalkeeper. The Spanish goalkeeper spent 12 seasons at Old Trafford, lifting the Premier League in his second season under Sir Alex Ferguson before going on to lift the Europa League under Jose Mourinho.
De Gea’s shot-stopping ability has never been questioned, although he has made some questionable mistakes over the years. When Erik Ten Hag took charge of his first game last season, it became more and more evident that the goalkeeper would have to improve. The Spaniard made some critical errors that led to three goals United conceded against Brentford in their opening game.
The Dutch manager has identified Inter Milan’s Andre Onana as the perfect replacement for De Gea, and it looks like his wish will soon come true. Recent reports indicate that the Red Devils are nearing an agreement for the Cameroonian goalkeeper and want him to be part of their squad when they jet off to the United States.
Reports emerge confirming Manchester United in “Final Stage” in Onana deal
United is desperate for a ball-playing goalkeeper and is nearing an agreement with Inter for the Cameroonian goalkeeper. United have had two bids knocked down and are reportedly close to matching Inter’s valuation of their in-form goalkeeper.
Fabrizio Romano reported that United might wrap up Onana’s deal this week, leaving fans jubilant over what seems to be the club’s second summer signing following the capture of Mason Mount from United’s Premier League rivals Chelsea.
Manchester United are now really close to signing André Onana! Positive round of talks, final bid to arrive soon then done deal. 🚨🚨🔴 #MUFC
Told deal will be SEALED by the end of next week.
Personal terms agreed.
✈️ Man United want Onana to travel for USA pre season tour. pic.twitter.com/f4lRQ0L1Ir
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 7, 2023
According to Daily Mail, Onana’s signing will take the net spend of United on transfers under Erik Ten Hag past $380 million. In the previous summer transfer window, the Red Devils signed Lisandro Martinez, Antony, Tyrel Malacia, and Casemiro. Ten Hag also secured loan deals for Wout Weghorst and Marcel Sabitzer in January, both of which were not made permanent.
United desperate to sign the Cameroonian following De Gea exit
United don’t just need any goalkeeper; they need a goalkeeper that is comfortable with his feet, can play out from the back, and start the team’s attacks. Who’s better to do that than Andre Onana?
The Cameroonian was confident against Manchester City in the Champions League semi-final two months ago. He didn’t cave under pressure and was only beaten by an outstanding Rodri shot from outside the box.
The 27-year-old also had a decent season with Inter Milan, who finished 3rd in the Serie A and were Champions League finalists. He already had the privilege to be coached by United’s Dutch manager from his days in Ajax, under whom he won the Eredivisie three times.
United will experience huge progress in their defensive play if they can get their hands on Andre Onana in time for the new season.
How would you rate United’s Onana deal?
