According to latest reports, Man United are really close to signing Inter Milan goalkeeper Andre Onana this summer. The Red Devils made a breakthrough in negotiations after submitting a new bid for the shot-stopper, although no deal has been agreed yet between the clubs.
Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea announced his departure from the club as free agent on Saturday, ending his 12-year long stay at Old Trafford. The Spaniard’s exit exhibits the club’s push towards signing a new keeper before the 2023-24 pre-season commences this week.
Although having joined only a year ago in the summer of 2022, Andre Onana has cemented his place in the playing XI for the Nerazzurri, having featured in the Champions League final for the club. He been a key player for the Simeone Inzaghi’s side, securing 19 clean sheets in 41 games across all competitions.
The Red Devils submitted an initial bid of £38.5 million (€45m), but the Serie A side rejected the offer. The English club submitted an improved offer worth around £43m (€50m) last week, but it still fell short of the Italian club’s valuation of £51m (€60m).
Now, as reported by Italian transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano, Man United and Inter Milan are very close to reaching an agreement over a potential deal for Andre Onana. Final round of talks are set to take place before submitting the final official bid for the shot-stopper.
The Italian side were initially reluctant to reduce their asking price for the Cameroon international. However, after a positive round of negotiations, both the clubs are willing to compromise on the fee structure and seal the deal before he is scheduled to join Inter Milan for pre-season on July 13.
It’s André Onana week for Manchester United. Negotiations will continue with final round in order to submit official bid and get deal done. 🚨🔴🇨🇲 #MUFC
Sources expect agreement to be done by Wednesday/Thursday.
No issues on personal terms as already agreed since last week. pic.twitter.com/lZqpzDK9tZ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 9, 2023
The 27-year-old is eager to move to Old Trafford and reunite with his former Ajax manager, Erik ten Hag. He had already agreed personal terms with the club last week. Moreover, the Dutch manager is also keen on the Cameroonian keeper, who pushed the board to sign him.
Player Profile
Andre Onana possesses an exceptional array of skills and abilities as a shot-stopper, making him highly talented in his position. His combination of athleticism, agility, and technical proficiency makes him a formidable presence in between the posts.
One of Onana’s notable attributes is his remarkable reflexes, allowing him to make crucial saves, even from close-range shots. The 27-year-old’s lightning-fast reactions enable him to pull off impressive acrobatic stops to deny opponents.
The former Ajax man’s distribution skills are also impressive. He has excellent accuracy and range in his passing, enabling him to effectively distribute the ball to his teammates and even initiate quick counterattacks. His precise long passes and throws aid in swift transitions from defence to attack.
Manchester United are now really close to signing André Onana! Positive round of talks, final bid to arrive soon then done deal. 🚨🚨🔴 #MUFC
Told deal will be SEALED by the end of next week.
Personal terms agreed.
✈️ Man United want Onana to travel for USA pre season tour. pic.twitter.com/f4lRQ0L1Ir
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 7, 2023
Furthermore, the Cameroon international demonstrates great composure and decision-making under pressure. He remains calm and composed in high-pressure situations, making intelligent choices when claiming crosses or narrowing angles to limit the opponent’s shooting options.
Onana also exhibits sound decision-making when playing out from the back, assessing whether to pass or clear the ball. Effective communication with his defenders allows him to organize the defensive line and provide guidance for optimal positioning and coordination. His leadership qualities and command of his area instill confidence in his teammates and contribute to the overall defensive solidity of the team.
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Inter Milan director Piero Ausilio has shown a willingness to consider offers for the Cameroonian goalkeeper as they seek funds for a potential move for Romelu Lukaku from Chelsea. This could work in the Premier League side’s favour as they are keen to bring him to Old Trafford.
The Red Devils are also exploring alternate options and are in discussions with Feyenoord goalkeeper Justin Bijlow as a backup plan. However, a deal for Andre Onana is the top priority for Man United at the moment and the move is expected to be completed by this week.
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