United Beyond Manchester

Following another high-profile mistake by Andre Onana in the match against Wolves, reports are intensifying that Ruben Amorim is seeking a new first-choice goalkeeper or a competitor for the 28-year-old.

Last season, Andre Onana faced significant challenges, particularly as Manchester United was eliminated from the Champions League in the group stage. While he appeared to have overcome many of his mistakes this season, his struggles resurfaced earlier this month. In consecutive matches against Nottingham Forest and Viktoria Plzen, Onana was responsible for opposition goals, with the game against Forest resulting in a defeat. The situation worsened when he made a critical error on Matheus Cunha’s goal, which became a breaking point for many United fans and ignited transfer rumors.

According to the Daily Star, Manchester United’s primary target to replace Onana is Brighton’s Bart Verbruggen.

Verbruggen joined the Seagulls in the summer of 2023 and has kept seven clean sheets in thirty-seven Premier League appearances. The 22-year-old took over for the Dutch national team shortly after joining Brighton and has only not started in one match since.

One notable performance from his time at the European Championships came against France when he prevented 1.18 goals above expectation, with two saves coming from inside the box.

The report linking Verbruggen to Manchester United stated: “The United hierarchy are fully aware of the issue surrounding £47.5million Onana – hence the hunt for a top keeper is already underway.

And at present Dutch international Verbruggen, 22, seems to be the favourite on the Old Trafford stopper shopping-list.”

Transfermarkt values Verbruggen at €25 million, though Brighton would likely demand at least €30 million. With United having limited funds available and struggling all over the pitch, the club officials will need to determine which positions, including goalkeeper, should be addressed as priorities.

Verbruggen would be an excellent signing for the Reds, as he is one of the top young shot-stoppers in Europe. Manchester United will need to move quickly next summer to secure his services, as the young keeper will be pursued by multiple top clubs due to his talent.