André Onana is set to rejoin Manchester United for pre-season training, but his long-term future at the club remains uncertain as discussions with potential suitors continue.
While Trabzonspor has expressed interest in keeping the Cameroonian goalkeeper after his loan spell in Turkey, no concrete advancements have been made. For now, Onana is reportedly comfortable returning to United's squad while both the club and his representatives hash out what comes next.
Onana returned to United after his stint with Trabzonspor concluded, but it's understood he isn't a primary figure in manager Michael Carrick's plans for the upcoming season. This situation presents a degree of awkwardness for all involved.
The goalkeeper arrived at Old Trafford from Inter Milan in 2023 for approximately £43.8 million, but his time with the club has been less settled than hoped. Despite high expectations for his ball-playing skills, Onana has struggled with mistakes and inconsistency, impacting his standing.
His loan move to Trabzonspor offered a chance to regroup, where he impressed by making 30 appearances and contributing to a Turkish Super Cup win. Trabzonspor is open to his return, but his substantial wages, reportedly around £120,000 per week and set to increase after United's Champions League qualification, pose a significant financial hurdle.
This financial complication makes any deal challenging, as United aims to move him on, but finding a club willing to match his salary will be difficult. Trabzonspor might favor another loan, while Besiktas has also been mentioned as a potential suitor, albeit with similar financial reservations.
From Carrick's perspective, the goalkeeping setup is evolving. Senne Lammens is now considered United's first-choice keeper after positive performances, and with Altay Bayindir potentially leaving and Tom Heaton extending his contract, the focus has shifted.
Manchester United should prioritize finding a clear resolution for Onana swiftly. While his presence for pre-season is acceptable, it should not evolve into an extended distraction. Onana is a capable goalkeeper, but the environment at United seems less suitable for him now, with too much having transpired and Carrick clearly pursuing a different direction.
