Despite head coach Ruben Amorim planning to bring in a new goalkeeper during the summer transfer window, the 28-year-old Cameroonian international sees Manchester United as his only desired destination.
Having made 86 appearances for the Red Devils and contracted until 2028, Onana has faced criticism for a series of errors in recent matches.
With Tom Heaton likely to retire in June and Altay Bayindir potentially seeking more playing time ahead of the 2026 World Cup, Manchester United are expected to sign a new goalkeeper for Amorim’s first full campaign.
The early start date of the Africa Cup of Nations in December 2025 could also see Onana absent from United’s festive fixtures.
Despite his three costly mistakes in Premier League matches against Nottingham Forest, Wolves, and Brighton, and being held responsible for both goals in last week’s match against Ipswich Town, Onana remains committed to United.
His save percentage ranks him 16th out of 22 Premier League goalkeepers. However, he demonstrated his capabilities with impressive saves against Fulham’s Emile Smith Rowe in the FA Cup fifth round, although his slow restarts at goal kicks frustrated some fans.
Manchester United made a high-profile acquisition when they signed Onana from Inter Milan for £47.2 million in July, reuniting the goalkeeper with his former Ajax mentor Erik ten Hag.
To avoid a financial loss per Premier League regulations, Manchester United would need to recoup at least £28.32 million, representing his fee amortised over the remaining three years of his contract.
Interestingly, the Red Devils haven’t sold a first-choice keeper since Alex Stepney’s departure in 1978. Off the pitch, Onana has signed with Lian Sports Group, but insiders insist this isn’t a precursor to any transfer.
Ruben Amorim has come forward to support Onana amidst the criticism, particularly following the goal by Ipswich’s Jaden Philogene.
In Friday’s defence of his player, Amorim stated, “He did some great saves that saved our team and sometimes he has some problems but that is normal,” adding, “And if you look for our team you can find a lot of players with that issue.”
The coach also weighed in on Onana’s performance directly: “I think we are not performing so well as a team and sometimes players have a problem. People talk about the second goal from Ipswich, he is waiting for the touch of Delap. That is really clear. And then the ball continues to the goal. So that can happen.”
Amorim’s message remained one of backing his player: “We just have to support Andre and forget about the past and prepare for the future.”
