Andre Onana replacement: Manchester United transfer latest as 'shock move' for Premier League goalkeeper planned

Published: July 22 2025 | 00:35

Last updated: July 22 2025 | 01:28

Red Devils plan 'shock move' as rival goalkeeper wanted to replace Onana

Manchester United will reportedly look to make an approach to a Premier League rival about a goalkeeper target as they search for an Andre Onana replacement.

Manchester United have reportedly decided to approach Aston Villa for Emiliano Martinez, with the team keen on signing a replacement for goalkeeper Andre Onana.

Boss Ruben Amorim welcomed winger Bryan Mbeumo to Old Trafford on Monday, with the forward the second attacking player to join the team this summer after Matheus Cunha.

It is understandable that the club would focus on offensive reinforcements considering they only scored 44 goal in the Premier League last season, though there are concerns in a number of other areas.

Goalkeeper Onana is set to miss the start of the 2025-26 season due to a torn hamstring, but the shot-stopper has faced frequent criticism when fit.

The Daily Mail report that United have decided to make an approach to rivals Villa for Martinez, but his price tag of £40m could prove to be prohibitivley expensive.

Would United be making a mistake signing Martinez?

Given that Onana has failed to live up to expectations, and has routinely cost his side goals, signing a replacement should be seen as a matter of priority.

Martinez on the other hand has proven himself at the highest level, helping Argentina win the 2022 World Cup, as well as two Copa America's.

However, United must be wary of the risk of decline considering he will be 33 in September, and while goalkeepers often have longer careers compared to outfield players, they rarely remain at their peak later into their thirties.

It should also be noted that Amorim's transfer budget could be somewhat limited following the signing of Mbeumo, and spending £40m on an ageing shot-stopper would arguably be a poor use of funds.

What are Manchester United's summer transfer window priorities?

United would be wise to bring in a goalkeeper in the near future, and Antwerp's Senne Lammens has been touted as an alternative to Martinez.

The club will also need to look elsewhere if they are to compete for Europe next term, especially in midfield given Casemiro is ageing, Manuel Ugarte has struggled to settle and Bruno Fernandes is relatively unfamiliar in a deeper role.

A striker would be beneficial as a complementary piece for Mbeumo and Cunha, but perhaps the addition of a number nine should be postponed if the Red Devils cannot afford to bring in a centre-forward and a midfielder.