Andre Onana's Manchester United career, which appeared to be over, could be unexpectedly resurrected this summer. The Cameroonian goalkeeper's future is set to become one of the first major decisions for the successor to departed manager Ruben Amorim.
Amorim's Final Transfer Decision
Ruben Amorim's last significant transfer move as Manchester United boss was to sanction Onana's loan departure to Turkish Super Lig side Trabzonspor in mid-September 2025. This came just weeks after the club secured the signing of new first-choice goalkeeper Senne Lammens, effectively ending Onana's turbulent two-year spell as the club's primary shot-stopper.
The 29-year-old, who joined United from Inter Milan for £43.8 million in 2023, never fully convinced during his time as number one. A pattern of high-profile errors undermined his occasional moments of brilliance, leaving his position increasingly vulnerable.
The Door Remains Ajar
Despite his exile, Onana remains under contract at Old Trafford until 2028. Reports from November 2025, notably in The i Paper, revealed the player's own desire to fight for his place upon his return. Furthermore, sources close to Lammens have indicated that United's initial plan was for Onana to stay and work alongside the Belgian, suggesting he retains some support within the club.
However, the landscape has shifted. Lammens has made an impressive start to life in England, seemingly cementing himself as the undisputed first choice. Trabzonspor, currently third in the Super Lig and pleased with Onana's performances, are reportedly open to making his move permanent. This presents United with a potential exit route for a player they may wish to move on.
A Decision for the New Boss
The critical variable is the identity and opinion of Amorim's replacement. The new manager will inherit a goalkeeper department with Lammens established as number one, but may view a 53-cap international and former Champions League finalist as valuable experienced cover.
It is a pragmatic consideration. Every squad needs reliable depth, and Onana's pedigree, despite his struggles for consistency in Manchester, arguably makes him a high-calibre deputy. The key question is whether the player would accept such a role, or if he would push for a permanent move elsewhere to secure regular football.
Ultimately, United's hierarchy may still hope a suitable offer arrives from Trabzonspor or another suitor. But if no club meets their valuation, a return to Carrington for pre-season is a distinct possibility. The successor to Amorim will then face an early dilemma: reintegrate a fallen star as a backup, or insist the club finds a way to cut ties for good.
