Manchester United Prepare for Andre Onana Transfer as Erik ten Hag Warned of Premier League Threats
Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has been warned that Premier League teams will try to expose his £50m target Andre Onana. Ten Hag has identified Inter Milan goalkeeper Onana as his top choice to replace David de Gea at Old Trafford. De Gea confirmed over the weekend that he was leaving Manchester United after a 12-year spell in which he made more than 500 appearances for the club.
United have already agreed personal terms with Onana and are ready to return with an improved offer after Inter Milan rejected their first bid. Ten Hag managed the 27-year-old at Ajax and believes he is the right goalkeeper to take the team forward following De Gea’s departure.
Ex-Ireland striker Tony Cascarino says Onana ‘appears a sensible choice’ but has highlighted one concern over the Cameroon international. Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand also has reservations about Onana, telling his YouTube channel last week that he will give United more confidence and more ability to play out from the back and that he suits an Erik ten Hag team.
What Are the Potential Threats?
Cascarino has warned that Premier League teams such as Brentford and Newcastle United will test Onana with deep crosses. He believes that Onana will have the same questions to answer as De Gea did 12 years ago when he joined Manchester United. Ferdinand has also highlighted the potential for mistakes when playing a risky style of football, but believes that Onana will remain calm throughout those periods.
Will Onana Be a Success at Manchester United?
Onana has been praised for his ability with his feet and his composure under pressure, which makes him an ideal fit for Ten Hag’s style of play. He has spent five years playing under Ten Hag at Ajax, so they have a good understanding of each other’s game. Onana is also a modern day goalkeeper who is comfortable playing out from the back and can find teammates in space when pressed by opposing teams.
Conclusion
Manchester United are in the process of replacing David de Gea with Andre Onana, and it appears that Ten Hag has identified the perfect replacement. Onana has all the attributes to be a success at Old Trafford, but he will have to prove himself against Premier League teams who will look to exploit any weaknesses he may have. If Onana can remain calm under pressure and continue to show his composure on the ball, then he could be the perfect fit for Manchester United.