The news covers significant developments surrounding Manchester United, with focus on goalkeeper Andre Onana, forward Marcus Rashford, and defender Harry Maguire, reflecting the club’s evolving squad under new manager Ruben Amorim. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Onana’s Struggles and Potential Departure
Andre Onana, Manchester United’s £43.8m summer signing from Inter Milan, has faced increasing scrutiny under Ruben Amorim. Despite improved form this season, the 28-year-old goalkeeper has made several high-profile mistakes in recent matches, including costly blunders against Nottingham Forest and Viktoria Plzen. These mistakes appear to have caused Amorim to lose patience with Onana, as per reports from Spain.
Fichajes claims that Amorim has already decided to move Onana on and is targeting a replacement in the upcoming January transfer window. The report suggests that Amorim’s preferred option is Marcin Bulka, the 25-year-old goalkeeper currently at Nice, who has impressed in Ligue 1. Amorim is reportedly so determined to land Bulka that he has promised the player an immediate starting role at Manchester United.
The potential cost of the transfer is noted at €20m (£16.5m, $21m), which is considered affordable for Manchester United, who are willing to back Amorim’s plans. Amorim sees securing a new goalkeeper as one of his “most urgent priorities” and the first step in his broader strategy to strengthen the team during the winter transfer window.
Although Amorim has defended Onana’s recent mistakes, acknowledging the disconnect in his play against Nottingham Forest and Viktoria Plzen, the manager is clearly planning for a change in goalkeeping personnel. This move indicates that Amorim, who has made several tactical adjustments since taking over, is committed to reinforcing key positions in the team as part of his broader vision for United.
Rashford’s Future and Transfer Speculation
The future of Marcus Rashford continues to be a topic of debate. The England international, who has had an up-and-down season with Manchester United, has been linked with potential moves away from Old Trafford. While Rashford remains a key player for the club, his inconsistency has led to growing speculation about his future under Amorim’s management.
Interestingly, reports from Ben Jacobs suggest that Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is not actively pursuing Rashford, despite past discussions. PSG had spoken to Rashford’s representatives before and after he signed a new contract with United in July 2023. However, the French club feels that Rashford’s camp used their interest to gain leverage in negotiations. There are no current plans to pursue Rashford unless he expresses a desire to leave Manchester United.
Moreover, clubs in Saudi Arabia, like Al-Qadsiah and Al-Ittihad, have shown interest in Rashford, though sources indicate that Rashford is unlikely to move to Saudi Arabia until at least 2026. He reportedly wants to stay in Europe to maintain his chances of being selected for England’s World Cup squad.
Maguire’s U-Turn
Harry Maguire, another player who appeared set to leave Manchester United, seems to be experiencing a change of heart. The central defender had been heavily linked with a move away from Old Trafford due to a lack of playing time, but under Amorim, there is now a possibility that Maguire could stay. Sources suggest that Amorim’s change of stance on Maguire may lead to a U-turn in the player’s future at United.
This shift could be significant, given that Maguire was one of the most high-profile players on the transfer market for United, especially with rumors of interest from clubs in both the Premier League and abroad. If Amorim reconsiders Maguire’s role in the squad, it would be an interesting development, as it would suggest a more patient approach to the player’s integration into the team, potentially leading to a greater focus on squad depth and tactical flexibility.
Summary
In summary, Ruben Amorim is clearly focused on making strategic changes to Manchester United’s squad. Onana’s future is in jeopardy following some recent errors, with Amorim reportedly targeting Marcin Bulka as his replacement. Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford’s inconsistent form has led to speculation about a possible move, but interest from PSG seems to have cooled for now. Lastly, Harry Maguire’s situation appears to be evolving, with a potential change in Amorim’s attitude toward the defender that could keep him at the club. As the January transfer window approaches, these developments highlight the ongoing transformation at Manchester United under Amorim’s leadership.