Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana faces uncertain future after Senne Lammens arrival

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Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana faces uncertain future after Senne Lammens arrival

Manchester United are considering offloading Cameroonian goalkeeper André Onana to the Saudi Pro League, with the former Inter Milan star’s standing at Old Trafford diminishing following the arrival of Belgian shot-stopper Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp.

Altay Bayindir has been chosen as United’s first-choice goalkeeper for the start of the 2025–26 campaign, starting all three of the club’s Premier League matches so far.

Onana, meanwhile, has made just one appearance this season, featuring in the Red Devils’ EFL Cup second-round tie against Grimsby Town, where he endured a difficult evening. The 28-year-old was at fault for two goals and saved only one of 12 penalties in the shootout.

Lammens was signed on deadline day as part of Erik ten Hag’s squad reshuffle before the Dutchman’s departure, with the 23-year-old now seen as a strong contender for the number one role.

His arrival brings Manchester United’s goalkeeping roster to four, alongside Bayindir, veteran Tom Heaton—who signed a one-year extension in the summer—and Onana, whose future now appears increasingly in doubt.

According to Football Insider, United could sanction Onana’s departure before the Saudi transfer window closes on 23 September. Although the Cameroon international had hoped to remain at Old Trafford this summer, he is reportedly viewed as third choice, behind Bayindir and Lammens, under current manager Ruben Amorim.

Onana, who joined United in 2023, has endured a challenging spell in Manchester, with a series of high-profile mistakes said to have undermined his position in the squad. While Lammens may need time to adjust, Bayindir’s early-season form has cemented his place as Amorim’s preferred starter for now.

United have confirmed that Lammens will wear the number 31 shirt and has signed a contract until June 2030. The highly rated Belgian, considered a potential successor to Thibaut Courtois for his national team, could make his debut in the Manchester derby against Manchester City on 14 September.

Speaking to MUTV following his arrival, Lammens described joining United as the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition.

“This is my dream move,” he said. “When I was five, United were at the top of football, and we remember their greatness. When I heard they were interested in me, it was like a childhood dream come true.

“I remember being a kid, watching United win the Champions League and the league. I want to help the team get back to that level, compete for titles, and play in the Champions League again. I want to grow with this club and reach those heights.”

Although yet to earn a senior cap for Belgium, Lammens’ potential has been widely recognised, with United hopeful he can become a long-term solution in goal.

His signing marks a significant moment in the club’s ongoing rebuild under Amorim, while Onana’s future now hangs in the balance with Saudi clubs monitoring his situation closely.