3 Goalkeepers Who Could Replace Andre Onana at Manchester United
Andre Onana’s turbulent time at Manchester United may be coming to an end following a string of poor performances that have put the spotlight firmly on the Cameroonian shot-stopper. The latest came during United’s 2-2 Europa League draw against Olympique Lyon, where his mistakes led directly to both goals conceded.
Signed in 2023 for €50 million (KSh7.3 billion) from Inter Milan, Onana was meant to be the long-term replacement for David De Gea. However, the 27-year-old has struggled under the weight of expectation, with a mixed bag of outstanding saves and costly blunders. In just 69 Premier League appearances, he has conceded 99 goals—a stat that has fueled calls for change.
Former United player Nemanja Matic even labelled Onana “one of the worst goalkeepers in Man United history.”
Manager Ruben Amorim, who took over from Erik ten Hag in November 2024, has publicly defended Onana but is reportedly preparing for a summer rebuild—and finding a new goalkeeper may be on the cards.
Here are three potential replacements who could step in if United part ways with Onana:
1. Bart Verbruggen – Brighton & Hove Albion
At just 22, Verbruggen is already turning heads in the Premier League. Having joined Brighton in 2023 from Anderlecht, he swiftly established himself as the club’s number one. United are reportedly in the race to sign the Dutch international, though his contract runs until 2028—meaning United would have to spend big.
Verbruggen offers a mix of sharp reflexes and excellent ball distribution, making him a great fit for Amorim’s system, which emphasizes ball-playing goalkeepers.
2. Senne Lammens – Royal Antwerp
Another exciting Belgian prospect, Lammens is just 22 but is already attracting attention from top European clubs. Standing at 6-foot-4, he is physically commanding and technically gifted with his feet—a modern goalkeeper in every sense.
Though he has played fewer than 50 senior games, his current season with Royal Antwerp, where he’s made 35 appearances, has showcased his potential. His current value is around €7.5 million, which makes him a cost-effective option.
3. Lucas Chevalier – Lille OSC
The 23-year-old French goalkeeper is another serious contender. Chevalier has been Lille’s mainstay this season, with 42 appearances, including all 28 Ligue 1 games. He’s calm under pressure, quick off his line, and has solid shot-stopping skills.
Chevalier’s performances have impressed scouts across Europe, and he could be the kind of smart, long-term signing Manchester United needs in goal.
What Next for Onana?
Despite continued support from Amorim, the pressure on Onana is mounting. “He is OK,” Amorim told reporters. “It is not about an individual. Individual errors in football can make a difference and you take responsibility for it, but it is always about the team.”
Whether or not that team includes Onana next season remains to be seen. For now, Manchester United fans are left wondering if the club will continue to back their current keeper—or look to a new era between the posts.
In other news: Shaken But Not Shattered: Real Madrid Bank on Bernabeu Magic for Arsenal Comeback
3 Goalkeepers Who Could Replace Andre Onana at Manchester United