Manchester United have informed goalkeeper Andre Onana that he is not wanted back at Old Trafford following his loan period with Trabzonspor. The decision stems from concerns within the club regarding his suitability as a backup goalkeeper, according to reports in The Daily Mail.
Onana was loaned to the Turkish Süper Lig side in September after a series of criticised performances following his €50 million transfer from Inter Milan in 2023. His display in a Carabao Cup defeat to Crewe proved particularly damaging to his standing at the club, leading to the temporary move.
Despite expressing a desire to return to Manchester and compete with Senne Lammens for the starting position, United are set to reject this request. The club are also prepared to sell backup goalkeeper Altay Bayindir this summer, but this does not change their assessment of Onana’s role.
The core reasoning behind the decision is that United believe Onana’s strong personality is not conducive to a backup role, potentially disrupting team dynamics. This, combined with his substantial wages of approximately €135,000 (£120,000) per week, makes retaining him financially and strategically unviable.
Trabzonspor have publicly stated their interest in extending Onana’s stay. Club president Ertugrul Dogan expressed his admiration for the player in April, indicating a willingness to negotiate a permanent deal if terms are favourable.
Elsewhere, Marcus Rashford’s loan spell at Barcelona is progressing well, though his long-term future remains uncertain due to the Catalan club’s reluctance to meet his €30 million buyout clause. Rashford has reportedly indicated a willingness to renegotiate his contract, potentially saving Barcelona €4 million per year.
Rasmus Hojlund’s permanent transfer to Napoli is nearing completion and is expected to generate a €50 million windfall for United, contingent upon Napoli qualifying for the Champions League. Jadon Sancho’s loan at Aston Villa has been less successful, and United are not expected to extend his contract, opening the door for a potential return to Borussia Dortmund. Several younger players, including Toby Collyer, Harry Amass, and Ethan Wheatley, are gaining experience in the EFL.
With several loan deals requiring resolution, United have already made a firm decision regarding Onana, effectively ending his time with the club.
