Man United Flop Set For Loan Move To Turkey | OneFootball

Onana Edges Closer to Trabzonspor Loan Move

Verbal Agreement Struck

According to Fabrizio Romano a “verbal agreement” has been reached between Manchester United and Trabzonspor for André Onana. Romano confirmed: “BREAKING: Trabzonspor reach verbal agreement with Manchester United to sign André Onana on loan. Club to club verbal agreement in place and final decision now up to Onana. It’s only up to the goalkeeper.”

This update highlights how swiftly the Turkish club have moved, after initially missing out on their first-choice target, Ugurcan Cakir, who instead signed for Galatasaray. Trabzonspor see Onana as a potential difference-maker and are hopeful of sealing the deal before the Turkish transfer window closes on 12 September.

United’s Goalkeeping Dilemma

Manchester United find themselves in an unusual position, with four senior keepers in the squad: Onana, Altay Bayindir, Tom Heaton, and the newly-signed Senne Lammens. While club officials were prepared to carry all four, manager Ruben Amorim has been vocal about wanting a trimmed squad in light of United’s absence from European football this season.

Onana’s inconsistent form has compounded the issue. Having been signed from Inter Milan in 2023 for £47.2m to replace David de Gea, the Cameroonian international has struggled to convince. Mistakes in high-profile matches, including the Europa League final defeat to Tottenham and the shock EFL Cup exit to Grimsby, have left many fans questioning his suitability as United’s long-term No.1.

A Career at a Crossroads

Still only 29, Onana should be in his prime years as a goalkeeper. Yet, his hamstring injury during pre-season and subsequent relegation to the bench have left his Old Trafford future uncertain. While Bayindir has been trusted for league duties, Onana’s cameo appearances have failed to rebuild his reputation.

A loan spell in Turkey could provide the fresh start he badly needs — and offer United breathing space as they look to resolve their long-term goalkeeping strategy.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester United fan’s perspective, this feels like a make-or-break moment in Onana’s career. Supporters were initially excited when he arrived from Inter Milan, especially given his ball-playing ability and previous connection with Erik ten Hag at Ajax. However, the reality has been far less convincing. The £47.2m fee looks increasingly like a gamble that has backfired.

Fans may view this proposed loan as an opportunity for everyone involved. Onana could regain confidence in a less pressurised environment, while United could quietly move forward with Bayindir or even give Senne Lammens a chance to prove himself. Many will question why David de Gea was allowed to leave if his successor was not fully ready to step into the role.

The loan also reflects the chaotic squad planning at Old Trafford. Carrying four senior keepers never made sense, and Amorim’s desire for a leaner squad shows the disconnect between boardroom decisions and footballing priorities.

If Onana shines in Turkey, United might yet recoup some value — either by welcoming back a rejuvenated goalkeeper or selling him permanently. But if his struggles continue, this saga could end up as one of the club’s most expensive mistakes in recent memory.