Transfer News: Man United have a new keeper
The £47.2m signing of goalkeeper Andre Onana from Inter Milan has been completed by Manchester United.
The 27-year-old Cameroon international has agreed to a five-year contract with a 12-month extension option.
The deal is worth an initial £43.8m plus a possible £3.4m in add-ons, and the former Ajax keeper will now join up with the United squad on their pre-season tour of the United States.
Why have United signed him?
Ten Hag's desire to bring his former Ajax goalkeeper to Manchester United increased after his excellent performance in Inter Milan's Champions League final defeat.
A distribution like Onana's isn't risk-free, but it comes from the modern school of goalkeeping, where the last line of defence is now the first line of defence.
Goalkeepers are now expected to be comfortable with the ball at their feet, be able to play short and long passes accurately, and provide angles from which sides who dominate possession can advance down the pitch.
In a statement on the United website, John Murtough, Manchester United's football director, said:
“Andre was our top choice to become the new goalkeeper for Manchester United, with exactly the right profile of technical attributes and personality. Having achieved success throughout his career, we know that Andre will further add to the winning mentality we are building within our squad. He is already one of the world’s best goalkeepers and at the age of 27 we firmly believe that he can develop even further over the coming years.”
That's his name 👇@AndreyOnana is United! 🔴#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 20, 2023
Words from the man himself
Andre Onana tweeted: "I never imagined that a farewell would be so hard. A year ago I became Neroazzurro, many people told me that this club and this city had something special. Now I can confirm it. In my first days as a Neroazzurro I realised that this is a family, being Interisti is a way of life."
He added the following message:
I fell in love with San Siro, la Curva and the city. Now the circumstances are right for me to start a new journey in Manchester. I do it with great enthusiasm, but knowing that I will miss you. Eternal gratitude to all the interisti. You make this club great.
— Andre Onana (@AndreyOnana) July 20, 2023
What are the fans saying?
Liam, another Season Ticket holder, added: "I am intrigued by this signing. I think the manager is building a side that can really challenge next season. Most fans are now very excited."
On the Red Cafe forum, one user came up with an interesting theory. They said: "Calling it now, he will assist Rashford or one of our attackers for a goal next season."
United fan channel Stretford Paddock also gave us their thoughts.
