Manchester United is on the lookout for a new goalkeeper following the end of David de Gea’s contract, and their focus has shifted towards André Onana. The Dutch shot-stopper has caught the attention of manager Erik ten Hag, who is determined to bring in a new goalkeeper after a disappointing season.
Ten Hag emphasizes the importance of a goalkeeper’s ball-playing abilities, an area where De Gea struggled. With Onana’s impressive skills on the field and his familiarity with Ten Hag’s coaching style from their time together at Ajax, the Inter Milan goalkeeper has become a prime target for Manchester United.
Erik Ten Hag’s Desire for Goalkeeper Reinforcement
Erik Ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, is prioritizing the goalkeeper position for the upcoming season. Following a year of inconsistent performances and avoidable mistakes by David de Gea, Ten Hag is eager for change. He believes the game at the foot of the goalkeeper is crucial and is determined to find a shot-stopper who excels in that aspect.
Having already brought Antony and Lisandro Martinez from Ajax, Ten Hag now has his sights set on André Onana, the former Ajax goalkeeper currently playing for Inter Milan. The 27-year-old Onana is valued at €35 million.
André Onana’s Ball-Playing Prowess
André Onana stands out as the antithesis of David de Gea, with a style that goes beyond staying on the goal line. At 27, he has established himself as one of the best goalkeepers, known for his lightning-fast reflexes and explosive agility. However, it is his exceptional ball-playing skills that truly set him apart.
Onana’s ability to distribute the ball accurately and swiftly was on display during the Champions League final against Manchester City, where he confidently played the ball from his box to his teammates’ feet, defying the opponents’ press. This attribute was honed during his time at Ajax under Erik Ten Hag’s guidance.
Apart from David de Gea, Manchester United also has another goalkeeper, Dean Henderson. The 26-year-old Englishman, a product of the club’s academy, has aspirations of becoming the number one goalkeeper. However, his loan spell at Nottingham Forest this season did not convince the club’s hierarchy.
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With the potential arrival of André Onana, Henderson’s future at Manchester United will be assessed. If Onana joins, a departure for Henderson may be considered, unless financial constraints force the club to rely on Henderson and allocate transfer funds elsewhere.
Choosing Between a Goalkeeper and a Striker
Manchester United faces a crucial decision this summer regarding their transfer priorities. With the Glazer family seeking to sell the club, uncertainty surrounds the availability of significant funds for transfers. Manager Erik Ten Hag must weigh the need for a goalkeeper who fits his style of play against the requirement for a prolific striker to support Marcus Rashford.
The departure of Robin Van Persie in 2015 left a void in the striking department, and while Victor Osimhen and Rasmus Hojlund have been targeted, negotiations have been challenging due to the valuation of the players. Manchester United’s budgetary limitations may impact their final decision.
André Onana has emerged as the top goalkeeper target for Manchester United as they seek a successor for David de Gea. With Erik Ten Hag’s emphasis on a goalkeeper’s ball-playing abilities and Onana’s impressive skills and familiarity with Ten Hag’s coaching style, the Inter Milan shot-stopper appears to be an ideal fit. However, the club faces a choice between bolstering their goalkeeper position or securing a prolific striker. The availability of funds and the
