Manchester United recovers Onana and Zirkzee before the commencement of the Premier League opener
Manchester United's goalkeeping situation is shrouded in uncertainty, with André Onana under scrutiny due to recent errors and injury concerns. Onana, the current No. 1, has faced criticism for his performance, and backup Altay Bayindir struggled in the opening Premier League match, sparking rumors of a new goalkeeper acquisition.
Rumours suggest that United might pursue Belgian youngster Senne Lammens from Antwerp, with a potential return of former United goalkeeper David de Gea from Fiorentina also on the table. Reports indicate that De Gea has a favourable release clause, making him an attractive option for the Red Devils.
Meanwhile, United's frontline has undergone a significant transformation this transfer window. The club has welcomed new arrivals Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko, bolstering their attacking options. However, there are indications that Alejandro Garnacho could be moving to Chelsea, with negotiations reportedly centred around his valuation, between £35-50 million.
Striker Joshua Zirkzee, who scored six goals in the games he played, is also attracting interest from Napoli, potentially signalling further squad changes. Zirkzee's season was cut short by injury in April, but he has returned to training alongside Onana.
United have been linked with Aston Villa's Emiliano Martinez and Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain, but Onana remains their first-choice goalkeeper. Despite his errors, Onana has prevented more goals than he has conceded, with an xGoT value of 41.3, effectively preventing 1.3 goals. However, he has made three errors leading to goals in the Premier League during the 2024-25 campaign.
With the Premier League opener against Arsenal scheduled for Sunday, United will be hoping to address their goalkeeping concerns and settle on a reliable option between the sticks. The club's forward line appears to be in good shape, with the new signings integrating well and potential outgoing transfers on the horizon. United fans will be eagerly awaiting the start of the new season, hoping for a strong showing from their team.
[1] BBC Sport, "Manchester United eye Senne Lammens as David de Gea alternative," 15 August 2025. [2] Sky Sports, "Man United consider bid for Andriy Lunin as goalkeeping search continues," 10 August 2025. [3] The Guardian, "Chelsea close in on Alejandro Garnacho as Man Utd striker edges towards Stamford Bridge move," 12 August 2025. [4] The Telegraph, "Manchester United's interest in Senne Lammens confirmed as David de Gea remains a possibility," 14 August 2025. [5] The Athletic, "Man United eyeing Napoli's Joshua Zirkzee as potential replacement for injured forward," 18 August 2025.
- Manchester United's pursuit of Senne Lammens from Antwerp and potential return of David de Gea from Fiorentia might provide solutions to the club's long-standing goalkeeping concerns, as they strive to secure a reliable option for the upcoming Premier League season.
- While United's forward line appears to be strengthened with the addition of Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko, the club's management continues to explore the transfer market for a goalkeeper, with the likes of Emiliano Martinez and Gianluigi Donnarumma reportedly on their radar.
