Onana injury pushes Man Utd to seek new keeper with here the main contenders

Manchester United have given the green light to sign a new goalkeeper following André Onana’s hamstring injury.

It will keep him out for up to two months and has left his status for the Premier League opener in doubt.

This move comes not only as a response to Onana’s fitness setback but also amid concerns over his inconsistent performances last season, with manager Ruben Amorim determined to strengthen the competition for the No. 1 shirt.

United’s recruitment team has already drawn up a shortlist of potential replacements and are prepared to act swiftly in the transfer market.

One of the leading candidates is John Victor from Botafogo. United have informed the Brazilian club they are willing to trigger Victor’s £6 million release clause, and Botafogo are already preparing for his departure. 

Victor, who starred in the Club World Cup and has attracted interest from other European clubs, is seen as a reliable and cost-effective option who could immediately provide cover and competition for Onana.

Another prominent target is Zion Suzuki of Parma. The 22-year-old Japanese international has impressed with his performances in Serie B, keeping eight clean sheets in 37 appearances last season.

United admire his potential and see him as a long-term solution, though they would need to persuade both player and club, as Suzuki is not actively seeking a move this summer.

His estimated market value is around £17 million, and he is also on West Ham’s radar.

Emiliano Martínez of Aston Villa has also been considered, but United are unwilling to meet Villa’s £40 million asking price, and Villa are reluctant to sell.

The Athletic has reported that Brest's Marco Bizot is expected to move to Villa Park this summer for a low-cost fee. He's anticipated to come in as the club's No.2 but uncertainty over Martinez's future means Unai Emery now has a short-term fix.

Other names linked include Real Madrid’s Andriy Lunin and younger options like Antwerp’s Senne Lammens, reflecting United’s desire to secure both immediate cover and a possible future No. 1.

With the board’s approval, United are now expected to move quickly to secure a new goalkeeper, ensuring stability during Onana’s absence and increasing competition for the position moving forward.

The club’s willingness to spend in this area signals a clear intent to address last season’s defensive vulnerabilities and avoid a repeat of recent high-profile mistakes