Manchester United's plans for a crucial summer rebuild have been thrown into absolute chaos by a devastating double blow, The Mirror can exclusively reveal.
First, goalkeeper André Onana has reportedly told close confidants he wants to LEAVE the club after a single, turbulent season. The Cameroonian international, who only arrived from Inter Milan last summer for £47.2 million, is said to be seeking a fresh start following a difficult campaign plagued by high-profile errors.
This shocking development comes as a monumental setback for the Red Devils, who invested heavily in Onana to replace the long-serving David de Gea. His potential departure would force the club back into the transfer market for yet another number one, draining funds desperately needed elsewhere in the squad.
Amorim Deal Falls Through in Major Managerial Blow
As if the Onana news wasn't damaging enough, United's search for a potential successor to under-pressure boss Erik ten Hag has also suffered a critical failure.
Sporting Lisbon's highly-rated manager Rúben Amorim, a prime target for the Old Trafford hierarchy, has now agreed a new deal to stay in Portugal. This move effectively ends any immediate prospect of him taking the reins at the Theatre of Dreams and is a significant victory for rivals Liverpool, who were also heavily linked with the 39-year-old coach.
Amorim's decision to commit his future to Sporting leaves United's managerial plans in a state of flux. With current boss ten Hag's future still uncertain following a poor Premier League season, the failure to secure a top alternative like Amorim could see the club stick with the Dutchman by default.
A Summer of Uncertainty at Old Trafford
These twin crises create a perfect storm of uncertainty for the fallen giants:
- Goalkeeping Dilemma: The potential need to sell Onana at a loss and find a new first-choice goalkeeper.
- Managerial Conundrum: The lack of a clear, available upgrade on ten Hag complicates a decision on his future.
- Transfer Budget Strain: Funds that could have been used to strengthen an injury-ravaged squad must now potentially be diverted to replace a player bought just last year.
For the Manchester United faithful, this is a nightmare start to the off-season, signalling that the road back to the top may be even longer and more complicated than anyone feared.
