Man Utd monitoring goalkeeping options with two targets in mind | OneFootball

Man Utd’s Goalkeeping Plans: Onana’s Future and Summer Transfer Targets

Onana’s Position at Old Trafford

Manchester United’s goalkeeping department is set to be a key talking point this summer, with the club actively looking for reinforcements despite Andre Onana’s commitment to staying at Old Trafford.

As reported by TeamTalk, Onana, who arrived from Inter Milan in 2023 for £43.8 million, has endured a mixed first season in English football. Despite a number of high-profile mistakes, the Cameroonian remains United’s first-choice goalkeeper and is determined to improve under Ruben Amorim.

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At 28, Onana believes he has room for growth and wants to establish himself as a more consistent presence between the sticks. United, on their part, are not actively looking to offload him, partly because any sale would likely result in a financial loss. However, the club is still in the market for a young goalkeeper who can initially serve as a number two but potentially develop into a long-term first-choice option.

James Trafford: A Leading Candidate

One of the main names under consideration is Burnley’s James Trafford. The 22-year-old has gained widespread recognition for his performances in the Championship, keeping 24 clean sheets as Burnley push for an immediate return to the Premier League.

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United see Trafford as an ideal candidate for a future first-choice role, but they face competition from Newcastle United, who are reportedly leading the race for his signature. Trafford is said to be open to a move to Old Trafford, but with Newcastle pushing hard, United may have to act quickly if they want to secure his services.

Joan Garcia Also on United’s Radar

Beyond the domestic market, United are also keeping a close watch on Espanyol’s Joan Garcia. The 23-year-old has emerged as one of La Liga’s standout young goalkeepers, and the club believes he fits the profile they are looking for.

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With Espanyol currently battling for promotion back to Spain’s top flight, Garcia’s future could depend on whether his club secures a return to La Liga. Should he become available, United could see him as a viable alternative to Trafford.

Illan Meslier No Longer a Priority

Another name previously linked with United is Leeds United’s Illan Meslier. The French goalkeeper was considered a potential long-term solution at Old Trafford, but his stock has fallen in recent months.

Despite Leeds sitting three points clear at the top of the Championship, Meslier’s performances have not been as convincing as expected. As a result, United’s interest appears to have cooled, with the club focusing on other targets instead.

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Meslier remains under contract at Elland Road until 2026, and with Leeds on course for promotion, a move away may not be a priority for the 25-year-old.

United’s Goalkeeping Vision for the Future

United’s approach suggests they are planning for the long-term rather than making a reactionary move based on Onana’s form. The club appears keen to secure a young goalkeeper who can develop into a long-term No.1, rather than bringing in an immediate replacement for the Cameroonian.

With Newcastle pushing for Trafford and Garcia’s future uncertain, United will need to act decisively if they want to secure their preferred target. The summer transfer window could prove pivotal in shaping the club’s goalkeeping department for years to come.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

This report presents an intriguing look at how the United is thinking about its goalkeeping future. The key takeaway? Onana is not being pushed out, but United are clearly planning for the long term.

James Trafford’s name will excite many supporters. A young, homegrown talent with a high ceiling, he has shown his potential at Burnley. Bringing him in as an understudy to Onana with a pathway to eventually becoming the No.1 would be a smart move. However, with Newcastle also in the mix, United will need to move quickly if they truly see him as the future.

Joan Garcia is a lesser-known name to Premier League followers, but his rise in La Liga has been impressive. If United believe he fits their style, it could be a clever move—similar to how David de Gea was signed from Atletico Madrid over a decade ago.

The cooling of interest in Meslier makes sense. While he was once considered one of the best young goalkeepers in England, his inconsistency at Leeds has raised questions. With United targeting a more stable long-term option, looking elsewhere feels like the right decision.

Ultimately, this strategy suggests United are learning from past mistakes. Rather than rushing to replace Onana, they are carefully building for the future. If they can land Trafford or Garcia, they may just be securing their next great No.1 while ensuring a seamless transition in years to come.