Reports suggest that Chelsea and Manchester United are both interested in signing Inter Milan goalkeeper Andre Onana. However, the Blues are considering offering a swap deal to sweeten the deal for the keeper. Onana, a former Cameroon international, joined Inter Milan on a free transfer from Ajax last summer. He has made 28 appearances in all competitions after battling with Inter icon Samir Handanovic for the No1 jersey.
Chelsea is ready to sell Edouard Mendy this summer and still has some doubts over Kepa Arrizabalaga’s capabilities as first-choice goalie. Meanwhile, United could lose David De Gea on a free transfer as both parties struggle to agree on a new deal. Reports suggest that Inter Milan wants £35 million to sell Onana, who had an on-field fight with teammate Edin Dzeko last month.
However, Chelsea is ready to offer up several stars in exchange for a cheaper fee. Romelu Lukaku is already at Inter on loan, and the Blues could pave the way for a second season by landing Onana. Inter Milan has also shown concrete interest in Trevoh Chalobah, who has dropped down the rankings under Graham Potter. The Italians also fancy the look of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, ideally on a free transfer. As a result, Chelsea is said to be edging United in the Onana race.
Onana played under Erik ten Hag at Ajax, which could sway things in United’s favour should they make a formal approach. The 26-year-old was sent home from the World Cup for disciplinary reasons. However, he has since established himself as a reliable goalkeeper and is now being courted by some of Europe’s top clubs.
Chelsea’s interest in Onana comes as no surprise given their recent struggles in goal. The Blues have been linked with several keepers in recent months, including AC Milan’s Gianluigi Donnarumma and Atletico Madrid’s Jan Oblak. However, Onana’s availability on the market could make him a more attractive option for the London club.
Meanwhile, Manchester United is also in the market for a new goalkeeper. David De Gea has been the club’s first-choice keeper for several years, but his form has dipped in recent seasons. The Spaniard has also been linked with a move away from Old Trafford, with Paris Saint-Germain reportedly interested in his services.
If United does decide to pursue Onana, they will face stiff competition from Chelsea. The Blues have been one of the busiest clubs in the transfer market this summer, signing several high-profile players, including Romelu Lukaku and Saul Niguez. Adding Onana to their squad would further strengthen their already formidable lineup.
Overall, it remains to be seen where Onana will end up this summer. Both Chelsea and Manchester United are in need of a new goalkeeper, and the Inter Milan star could be the perfect fit for either club. However, with Inter Milan reportedly demanding a high fee for his services, it remains to be seen if either club will be willing to meet their asking price.