Manchester United has intensified its efforts to secure the signature of Andre Onana, the top-flight goalkeeper from Inter Milan, according to several well-informed sources. The latest bid, stated to be a verbal offer of €45m (£38.5m), demonstrates the club's fervor to replace the outgoing David de Gea.
Famed Italian journalist, Gianluca di Marzio, divulged to Sky Italia and through his Twitter account that the Red Devils are keenly contesting for Onana and have boosted their preliminary offer by €5m. Although the increased bid edges closer to Inter's estimated price tag of €60m (£42m plus £10m in add-ons), it remains uncertain whether further negotiation will raise the offer.
Reports have revealed Manchester United's prolonged involvement in discussions with Inter Milan since last week. The urgency of the situation is further amplified by the expiration of David de Gea's contract on June 30. Although the club hasn't officially acknowledged his exit, it is apparent they are searching for a worthy successor.
"United have reached 45 million only verbally, Inter are asking for 60, let's see if the offer will go up again," shared Di Marzio on Twitter, confirming the on-going negotiations.
According to Football365, Onana has turned down offers from Saudi Arabia, favoring a potential transfer to Manchester United. This news comes amidst an unsettling contract situation with de Gea, who was reported to have accepted a contract offer featuring reduced wages before it was withdrawn by the club at the eleventh hour.
Despite the developments, de Gea's departure still leaves the goalkeeper position at Old Trafford up for grabs. It is stated that Dean Henderson, returning from a loan spell at Nottingham Forest, would seek an exit if not appointed as the number one goalkeeper. Therefore, securing Onana's signature would not only mitigate this issue but also reaffirm United's intent to reinforce their squad for the next season.
Onana has proven himself as a formidable presence on the pitch, praised for his assertiveness in the box and his adept ball-playing skills. Last season, he completed 78 percent of his passes, including six long balls per game. The 27-year-old's ability to serve as a sweeper-keeper could be a significant upgrade for the Red Devils.
With the upcoming pre-season tour and the urgency to stabilize the squad, the club is likely to intensify their efforts to finalize the deal. As discussions are underway, Manchester United fans anticipate the arrival of their potential new goalkeeper.
