Manchester United‘s head coach, Ruben Amorim, is reportedly considering dropping Andre Onana for the upcoming Premier League clash against Newcastle after a series of costly mistakes in recent matches. Despite his earlier vote of confidence, Amorim is now contemplating a change in goal for the Red Devils, with Onana’s performance under scrutiny following a poor showing in United’s 2-2 Europa League draw against Lyon. United are also actively scouring the market for a new No. 1 goalkeeper, with a five-man shortlist already drawn up to potentially replace Onana in the summer transfer window. Here’s a breakdown of the situation and the players that could be brought in to take over as Manchester United’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Onana’s Recent Struggles and the Impact on United
Andre Onana’s time at Manchester United has been marred by inconsistency, particularly in recent matches. The goalkeeper made several high-profile errors in United’s Europa League quarter-final first leg against Lyon, which ended in a 2-2 draw. Onana was at fault for both Lyon goals, with his missteps leading to severe criticism from former United player Nemanja Matic, who called Onana “the worst goalkeeper in Manchester United history.”
Since the start of the 2023-24 season, Onana has made eight errors that led directly to goals, the most of any goalkeeper in the Premier League. This record has put his position under threat, and despite Ruben Amorim’s earlier show of confidence in his No. 1, there are now serious questions about whether Onana should remain as the club’s first-choice keeper. Amorim himself has said, “If you look at the season, I’ve made more mistakes than them during these last games. There’s nothing I can say to Andre that will help him, so the most important thing is to be natural and, when the time comes, I will choose the best XI to play.”
Despite Amorim’s support, it appears he is seriously considering a change for the upcoming trip to Newcastle, with United’s backup goalkeeper, Altay Bayindir, on standby to start.
The Five-Man Goalkeeper Shortlist: United’s Potential Replacements for Onana
With the future of Andre Onana in doubt, Manchester United are already turning their attention to potential replacements. According to reports, a five-man shortlist has been compiled for the summer transfer window, and the club is weighing its options. Here are the key names being linked with a move to Old Trafford:
1. Lucas Chevalier (Lille)
Lucas Chevalier, the 23-year-old goalkeeper from Ligue 1 side Lille, has emerged as one of United’s top targets. Having made over 100 appearances for Lille, Chevalier has impressed scouts with his shot-stopping ability and leadership. His performances have attracted interest from several top clubs, including Manchester City, Newcastle, and Paris Saint-Germain. United could face a transfer fee of around £40 million to bring Chevalier to Old Trafford, but his potential as a long-term No. 1 keeper makes him an appealing option.
2. James Trafford (Burnley)
James Trafford, who has been brilliant for Burnley in the Championship this season, is another name on United’s radar. Trafford has kept an outstanding 28 clean sheets this campaign and is being tipped as the next England No. 1, potentially replacing Jordan Pickford in the future. The 22-year-old is valued at £30 million and could be a cost-effective solution for United as they look to solidify their goalkeeper position for the long term.
3. Bart Verbruggen (Brighton)
Bart Verbruggen, Brighton’s 22-year-old goalkeeper, has also caught the attention of Manchester United. Verbruggen’s impressive performances have made him one of the most highly-rated young keepers in Europe. However, Bayern Munich is reportedly also keen on him, as they seek competition for veteran Manuel Neuer. United will face competition for Verbruggen, but his potential makes him a viable option for the club.
4. Mads Hermansen (Leicester City)
Despite Leicester City’s struggles this season, United reportedly still retain an interest in Mads Hermansen. The 24-year-old Dane has impressed scouts with his performances, particularly in the 2023-24 season, and United sent scouts to watch him in December. Although Leicester is facing relegation, Hermansen could be seen as a player to watch for the future, with United possibly ready to make a move for him in the summer.
5. David de Gea (Former Manchester United Keeper)
Although initial reports suggesting that United could re-sign David de Gea have been dismissed, the former No. 1 remains a topic of conversation. While De Gea has left the club after his contract expired, there could still be a scenario where United looks to bring him back if they struggle to secure one of their other targets. However, this option seems unlikely given the club’s focus on moving forward with a new goalkeeper.
What’s Next for Onana and United’s Goalkeeper Situation?
With Onana’s future uncertain, Manchester United’s management is under pressure to make a decision regarding their goalkeeper situation. Ruben Amorim’s decision to potentially drop Onana for the trip to Newcastle on Sunday highlights the urgency of the situation. United’s potential replacements, including Chevalier, Trafford, Verbruggen, and Hermansen, are all viable options for the summer transfer window, but whether United can secure any of them will depend on negotiations, competition from other clubs, and their budget for the upcoming transfer market.
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Conclusion
Manchester United’s goalkeeper situation remains in flux, with Andre Onana’s poor performances leading to questions about his future at Old Trafford. Ruben Amorim is reportedly considering dropping Onana for the crucial match against Newcastle, and the club is already looking at potential replacements for the summer. The five-man shortlist of Lucas Chevalier, James Trafford, Bart Verbruggen, Mads Hermansen, and even a potential reunion with David de Gea presents a range of options for United as they seek a new No. 1 goalkeeper. The coming weeks will be pivotal in determining the direction United takes with their goalkeeper situation.
