Man United given Saudi lifeline as they ponder sale of £47m player

Manchester United, ManU FC v Fulham FC Andre Onana of Manchester United during the Manchester United FC v Fulham FC Emirates FA Cup Round 5 match at Old Trafford, Manchester, England, United Kingdom on 2 March 2025 Credit: Ryan Crockett/Every Second Media Editorial use only. All images are copyright Every Second Media Limited. No images may be reproduced without prior permission. All rights reserved. Premier League and Football League images are subject to licensing agreements with Football DataCo Limited. see https://www.football-dataco.com Copyright: xIMAGO/EveryxSecondxMediax ESM-1345-0292 RyanxCrockettx/xEveryxSecondxMediax

Onana Future in Doubt as Saudi Interest Grows

According to TeamTalk, Andre Onana has been told he can quit Manchester United, adding another twist to the team’s goalkeeping predicament. The Cameroonian cost £47 million to acquire from Inter Milan in 2023, but he hasn’t performed up to the standards expected of a long-term No. 1 at Old Trafford.

Saudi Pro League lifeline

The Saudi Pro League has become a viable alternative for the 29-year-old, the report claims. The player’s team and Middle Eastern clubs are reportedly having sincere conversations, with “the single factor that could convince the goalkeeper to make the move now coming to light.”

It is believed that the main concern is financial security. Due to a contract provision associated with European participation, Onana’s pay was reduced by 25% when United failed to qualify for the UEFA Champions League. The Saudi Pro League presents the possibility of a prosperous new chapter for him, given his already diminished salary and uncertain future.

Amorim’s new direction

Ruben Amorim, the head coach of United, has made a firm decision. According to TeamTalk, “Amorim has told the goalie that the team is moving in a different direction, allowing him to look for opportunities elsewhere.” This realization occurs as Amorim looks for a goalie who is more in line with his ideology; young Belgian Senne Lammens has already been signed to offer competition.

Onana’s reputation has been damaged by his blunders at crucial times, despite his well-established skill with the ball at his feet. His dependability in the Premier League has been called into question by supporters who have seen a combination of brilliant play and expensive mistakes.

Transfer window uncertainty

Even if there isn’t a final agreement yet, negotiations are moving forward, and United is reportedly open to offers from beyond Saudi Arabia. The upcoming months will be pivotal for Onana. His career may be shaped by his decision to stay at Old Trafford in a lesser capacity or to travel overseas for a new experience.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

This report will evoke conflicting emotions in Manchester United supporters. As a contemporary goalie, Onana was supposed to change the way the squad constructed their defense. Though the actuality has been less compelling, his ability to play with his feet was perceived as an improvement. Supporters remember the mistakes made in major games, particularly in Europe.

There will be discussion when it is revealed that Ruben Amorim has already found a replacement in Senne Lammens. Some supporters may view it as a brutal but essential phase in United’s rebuilding process.

Financially, the Saudi Pro League approach makes sense. Many fans would applaud the move if the team could recover a fair price and reinvest in areas of the team that need immediate attention, most likely in January, such midfield and full-back.

In the end, the fan base seeks clarity and stability. Finding a capable substitute is essential if Amorim has determined that Onana is not the right person to lead from the rear. Another season with uncertainty between the posts is not something the team can afford.

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