Manchester United's Cameroonian goalkeeper Andre Onana could be poised for a dramatic return to Inter Milan, with his representatives reportedly engaged in active talks with the Serie A giants. The player is currently on a loan spell at Turkish club Trabzonspor, where he has been performing impressively, but his long-term future at Old Trafford appears increasingly in doubt.
Onana's Current Situation and Inter Milan Interest
According to reports from The Daily Mail, Onana's agents have travelled to Italy to explore the possibility of a permanent move back to the San Siro. The goalkeeper enjoyed a successful stint at Inter before his £47.2 million transfer to Manchester United in the summer of 2023, having helped guide the Italian side to the Champions League Final and securing domestic cup honours.
Onana's loan to Trabzonspor was sanctioned by United following the arrival of Senne Lammens, which saw the Cameroonian international drop down the pecking order at Old Trafford. At Trabzonspor, he has made a strong impact, suffering only three defeats in sixteen appearances and helping the club to third place in the Turkish Super Lig.
Potential Obstacles and Contractual Details
Despite the ongoing discussions, several hurdles remain. Onana still has two-and-a-half years remaining on his Manchester United contract, and any transfer would likely require the club to negotiate a settlement. Furthermore, his wages could present a sticking point, as he received a salary increase upon moving to Turkey.
Inter Milan's current first-choice goalkeeper, Yann Sommer, is expected to depart the club this summer, creating a potential vacancy that Onana could fill. The player is believed to still own property in Milan and remains highly respected by his former employers, factors that could facilitate a return.
Onana's Manchester United Prospects and Broader Context
While the report suggests Onana has not entirely abandoned hope of reclaiming the number one jersey at Manchester United from Senne Lammens, it is widely anticipated that he will leave Old Trafford this summer. His position became untenable following a series of costly errors that saw him fall out of favour with the club's management.
This development adds to the uncertainty surrounding Manchester United as they approach the summer transfer window. The club is also grappling with managerial questions, with interim boss Michael Carrick having made a positive impression by securing consecutive victories against Manchester City and Arsenal to propel the team back into the top four.
The potential return of Andre Onana to Inter Milan represents a significant storyline in the football transfer market, highlighting the fluid nature of player careers and the strategic manoeuvres of top European clubs.
