Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana is reportedly close to rejoining Trabzonspor on a season-long loan. This development follows his previous loan spell with the Turkish club, where he made 33 appearances across all competitions, helping them secure a third-place finish in the Super Lig and qualify for the Europa League play-off round. The initial loan agreement did not include an option or obligation to buy, but Trabzonspor’s president, Ertugrul Dogan, had previously indicated the club’s intention to bring the goalkeeper back.
Dogan stated that discussions with Onana were ongoing daily and expressed confidence that there would be no financial difficulties in securing his return. He affirmed the club’s commitment to making the necessary sacrifices and did not anticipate any setbacks. Should any issues arise, Dogan mentioned that the club would seek another goalkeeper of comparable quality. It is understood that Manchester United will receive a loan fee from Trabzonspor, with the final details currently being arranged before an official announcement.
Onana’s position at Manchester United
Onana, a Cameroon international, lost his position as Manchester United’s primary goalkeeper at the beginning of the season. His standing in the squad further diminished following the arrival of Senne Lammens on transfer Deadline Day last summer. Lammens’ impressive performances since October, coupled with Tom Heaton signing a one-year contract extension, mean that Manchester United does not need to enter the market for a replacement for Onana.
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that a new loan deal for Onana to Trabzonspor has been verbally agreed. Romano stated that Onana is not part of Manchester United’s plans for the upcoming season, and Trabzonspor is prepared to re-sign him. The Turkish club is expected to pay a loan fee to Manchester United, with details being finalised.
Onana joined Manchester United from Inter Milan in July 2023. He was initially brought in to replace David de Gea as the club’s number one goalkeeper. During his first two campaigns at Old Trafford, the former Ajax goalkeeper started 72 of United’s 76 Premier League matches. However, he lost his starting spot at the beginning of the current season under former head coach Ruben Amorim.
Manchester United signed Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp on transfer deadline day, which effectively made Onana surplus to requirements. The Cameroonian goalkeeper, whose contract with Manchester United runs until 2028, has made 102 appearances for the club, recording 24 clean sheets. The club is reportedly looking to refresh its goalkeeping department this summer, with backup goalkeeper Altay Bayindir also attracting interest from clubs in his native Turkey.
Additionally, Radek Vitek, who is 22 years old, could also depart the club, either permanently or on loan, in pursuit of regular playing time after a successful loan spell at Championship club Bristol City. These movements indicate a significant restructuring within Manchester United’s goalkeeping ranks for the upcoming season.
Midfield targets and player decisions
While goalkeeper movements are underway, Manchester United is also actively pursuing midfield targets. Michael Carrick’s side is reportedly looking to revamp its midfield options. Ederson has reportedly completed a medical ahead of a move from Atalanta, and United is now reportedly progressing with a deal to sign the 21-year-old.
In other news regarding midfield, captain Bruno Fernandes has reportedly made a decision regarding his future at Manchester United. Despite previous links to an exit, including interest from the Saudi Pro League, Fernandes has reportedly informed teammates and those close to him that he intends to remain at Manchester United for the next season. This comes after a strong performance in the 2025/26 season, where he was arguably one of the league’s best players.
Ben Jacobs, a reporter, indicated that while Fernandes did not hold formal talks with the club about his future before the World Cup, his decision to stay has been communicated within his circle. United officials are reportedly not concerned about the future of their club captain, despite a release clause in his contract. Fernandes has one year remaining on his current contract, with an option for a one-year extension. His contract also includes a release clause valid for non-English clubs.
Manchester United is reportedly working on several player exits to create squad space and generate funds for new signings. Onana is among those considered surplus to requirements after his form declined during the 2024/25 campaign, leading to his initial loan to Trabzonspor for the 2025/26 season.
The club is in the market for at least two midfielders this summer and may also strengthen other positions ahead of their return to the Champions League. The focus remains on finalising details for Onana’s loan return to Trabzonspor.
Source: standard.co.uk