Manchester United have bolstered their goalkeeping options with the acquisition of promising Belgian shot-stopper Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp. The Red Devils have confirmed the £2.17 million deal for the 21-year-old, who arrives as cover for first-choice goalkeeper Andre Onana.
The young goalkeeper has signed a contract that will keep him at Old Trafford until June 2028, with an option to extend for an additional year. Lammens, who made 12 appearances for Royal Antwerp's first team, is seen as a long-term prospect for the Premier League giants.
Strategic Signing for United's Future
This move represents strategic planning from Manchester United's hierarchy, who identified the need for reliable backup following Tom Heaton's injury. Lammens arrives with impressive credentials despite his youth, having developed through the ranks at Club Brugge before his move to Antwerp.
United's coaching staff have been monitoring the Belgian's progress for several months, impressed by his distribution skills and commanding presence in the penalty area. His arrival provides crucial depth as the club competes on multiple fronts this season.
What Lammens Brings to Old Trafford
Standing at 6'3", Lammens possesses the physical attributes modern goalkeepers require. His experience in European competitions with Antwerp, including Champions League exposure, has prepared him for the pressures of English football.
While initially expected to serve as backup to Onana, United believe Lammens has the potential to develop into a genuine contender for the number one position in coming seasons. His signing follows the pattern of recruiting young talent with high resale value.
Broader Implications for United's Squad
This acquisition allows Altay Bayindir greater freedom to pursue first-team opportunities elsewhere, with the Turkish international seeking regular playing time. The Lammens signing demonstrates United's commitment to building a squad capable of sustaining challenges across all competitions.
Fans will get their first glimpse of the new signing during preseason preparations, where he'll have the opportunity to impress manager Erik ten Hag and compete for cup appearances throughout the coming campaign.
