Gary Neville believes Andre Onana could push for a departure from Manchester United before the transfer deadline after learning of the club's pursuit of a new goalkeeper. The former United defender suggests Onana's confidence has been "shot" by the club's active search for his replacement.
Manchester United are close to completing a £17m move for Royal Antwerp goalkeeper Senne Lammens. Onana has been named as a substitute for Sunday's clash with Fulham, with Altay Bayindir retaining his place in goal despite an unconvincing display in the opening weekend defeat to Arsenal.
Inside knowledge reveals priority
Neville revealed he had spoken to contacts within the club who confirmed that finding a new goalkeeper remains a priority. The Sky Sports pundit explained that while any new signing would likely start as backup, United absolutely need a reliable number one.
"Now that Onana knows United have been scouting around Europe for a new goalkeeper and replacement for him, his confidence must be shot at and he must be thinking he wants to get out," Neville said. He warned that both the goalkeeper situation and finding a central midfielder to partner Bruno Fernandes need resolving before September 1.
Current options underwhelming
Despite his concerns about the situation, Neville still considers Onana the best available option for manager Ruben Amorim. He described the Cameroonian as "the most reliable out of the unreliable goalkeepers they have."
Bayindir's performance against Arsenal highlighted United's goalkeeping concerns, with the Turkish keeper at fault for the decisive goal. Neville noted that while Onana also makes mistakes, he possesses greater personality and experience than his younger teammate.
Lammens was notably absent from Royal Antwerp's squad for their recent match against Mechelen, further fuelling speculation about the imminent transfer. The 23-year-old Belgian would provide additional competition in what has become United's most problematic position.
Sources used: "Mirror", "Daily Mail", "Daily Star", "Independent" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
