The transfer market has delivered yet another twist, this time involving Cameroonian goalkeeper André Onana. According to reliable outlets including The Guardian, The Times, and talkSPORT, Manchester United and Trabzonspor have reached a verbal agreement for an initial loan deal. The agreement between the two clubs is done, but the final decision rests entirely in the hands of Onana himself.
Why Did This Move Come About?
- Onana’s Struggles at Manchester United
Onana has endured a difficult spell at Old Trafford. Once brought in from Inter Milan in 2023 as Erik ten Hag’s trusted number one, his position has weakened significantly over the past year.- He has been sidelined by injuries during preseason.
- United manager Erik ten Hag has preferred Altay Bayindir in recent Premier League matches.
- The club also signed Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp, increasing competition.
- High-Profile Mistakes
Onana’s confidence has also been under scrutiny following a string of costly errors. For instance, he came under fire during United’s surprise Carabao Cup defeat against Grimsby Town after a glaring mistake. Such moments have hurt his reputation and made his place even more unstable. - Transfer Window Dynamics
While the English transfer window closed on September 1, the Turkish Super Lig window remains open until September 12. Trabzonspor have capitalized on this extended window to strike a deal with United.
The Current Situation
- A verbal agreement has been reached between Trabzonspor and Manchester United for an initial loan deal.
- No buy option has been mentioned so far.
- The move now depends solely on André Onana’s decision—whether he is willing to leave Old Trafford for more game time in Turkey.
Trabzonspor are in urgent need of a reliable goalkeeper after Uğurcan Çakır’s departure to Galatasaray. Signing Onana, even temporarily, would provide them with much-needed experience between the posts.
Reaction From Fans and Media
The story gained momentum after Fabrizio Romano broke the news on social media. His post on X (formerly Twitter) quickly spread across Reddit and football forums, with fans debating whether Onana should take the chance to revive his career in Turkey.
Another report by David Ornstein confirmed that Onana is open to joining Trabzonspor but wants to carefully review the contract details before making a final decision. Supporters of both clubs are now eagerly awaiting his answer.
What’s at Stake for Onana?
- If He Accepts the Loan
- Onana would likely become Trabzonspor’s first-choice goalkeeper immediately.
- He would gain regular playing time, which is crucial for regaining form and confidence.
- It could serve as a career reset, allowing him to rebuild his reputation away from the intense spotlight of Manchester United.
- If He Rejects the Move
- He remains at Old Trafford but faces stiff competition from Bayindir and Lammens.
- His opportunities could be limited, which might further damage his international and club standing.
Conclusion
As of September 6, 2025, Manchester United and Trabzonspor have reached a verbal agreement for the loan of André Onana, but the final word lies with the goalkeeper himself. With just days left before the Turkish transfer window closes on September 12, the decision must come quickly.
For Onana, this is more than just a transfer—it’s a chance to revive his career. If he chooses to make the move, Trabzonspor gain an experienced shot-stopper. If not, he faces a long and uncertain season at Old Trafford.
All eyes are now on André Onana to decide his next step.
