Andre Onana's Manchester United Future in Doubt as Inter Milan Return Discussed
Agents representing Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana have reportedly opened formal discussions for the player to leave Old Trafford and make a sensational return to his former club Inter Milan. The 29-year-old Cameroonian international, who arrived at United in a high-profile £47 million transfer back in July 2023, could be set for a permanent departure next summer.
A Struggling Spell in English Football
Onana joined Manchester United with significant expectations, having previously worked under manager Erik ten Hag during their successful time together at Ajax. Ten Hag personally advocated for United's hierarchy to secure the goalkeeper's signature, prising him away from Inter Milan where he had established himself as a key figure.
However, the transition to English football proved challenging for the shot-stopper. Across two seasons at United, Onana delivered occasional flashes of his undeniable talent but struggled with consistency, making several high-profile errors that drew criticism from fans and pundits alike. His position became increasingly uncertain following Senne Lammens' deadline-day arrival from Royal Antwerp last summer, which prompted Onana's subsequent season-long loan move to Turkish side Trabzonspor.
Rebuilding Reputation in Turkey
Determined to resurrect his career, Onana has made 16 appearances across all competitions for Trabzonspor, who currently occupy third position in the Turkish Super Lig standings. Despite this productive loan spell, reports suggest the goalkeeper has not entirely abandoned hope of reviving his Manchester United career, though it is widely expected he will seek a permanent move away from the club when the summer transfer window opens.
Inter Milan Return Gathers Momentum
According to emerging reports, Onana's representatives have recently been in Milan to explore various potential deals, with the possibility of the goalkeeper rejoining Inter Milan gaining particular traction. The Serie A giants are reportedly considering Onana as a potential replacement for current goalkeeper Yann Sommer, creating an opportunity for the Cameroonian to return to familiar surroundings.
Onana retains considerable admiration at Inter Milan, having played an instrumental role in their journey to the 2022/23 Champions League final, where they ultimately suffered defeat against Manchester City. During his previous stint at the San Siro, he also contributed to trophy successes in both the Coppa Italia and Italian Super Cup under manager Simone Inzaghi.
Practical Considerations and Potential Obstacles
The potential transfer is facilitated by Onana's continued ownership of property in Milan, removing one significant logistical hurdle from any prospective deal. However, reports indicate that the player's wage demands could present a substantial stumbling block during negotiations, potentially complicating Inter Milan's pursuit of their former goalkeeper.
Onana currently has two-and-a-half years remaining on his Manchester United contract, meaning any permanent transfer would require agreement between all parties involved. Meanwhile, his successor at United, Senne Lammens, has enjoyed an encouraging start to his Old Trafford career, delivering an impressive performance during United's recent victory over Premier League leaders Arsenal.
Lammens Emphasises Team Fundamentals
Following United's significant away victory at Arsenal, Lammens reflected on manager Michael Carrick's approach since replacing Ruben Amorim. 'I'm going to be honest, there are not many special things he did,' the goalkeeper stated. 'It's just like sticking to the basics. Football is basics. If you do the basics well, then the quality of us comes out and I think we have players with the quality that can make the difference.'
Lammens elaborated further on Carrick's methodology, explaining: 'He made it really clear what he wants from us and what he expects from us. And I think today as well, on the pitch sometimes it didn't really come out. But if you fight as a team and if you keep believing in it, then you can still get the win.'
The goalkeeper expressed particular satisfaction with the Arsenal victory, noting: 'I think it was one of the better ones, better feelings of my career, to be honest. Away as well. Whilst last week [against Manchester City] was at home, which is also really nice and really special, this one felt like a little bit more hard work.'
As Onana's potential departure from Manchester United gathers momentum, the goalkeeper's future appears increasingly likely to lie away from Old Trafford, with a return to Inter Milan emerging as the most probable destination for the £47 million signing.
