Manchester United want Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin to replace Andre Onana: Report

Manchester United are reportedly set to make a bold move in the summer transfer window as they eye Real Madrid’s Ukrainian goalkeeper Andriy Lunin to replace the under-fire Andre Onana. Reports suggest that the Red Devils are preparing a substantial €40 million bid to lure Lunin away from the Spanish giants. With Onana’s performances coming under scrutiny, Manchester United’s management is eager to secure a more reliable shot-stopper.

Andre Onana, who arrived from Inter Milan in the summer of 2023, was brought in as part of Erik ten Hag’s vision of deploying a ball-playing goalkeeper. His arrival marked the end of David De Gea’s illustrious tenure at Old Trafford. However, despite flashes of brilliance, Onana has been inconsistent between the posts, making costly errors that have frustrated fans and management alike.

David De Gea, a Manchester United legend, was left without a club for an entire season before finding a new home in Serie A with Fiorentina. Since joining the Italian club, De Gea has produced a series of stellar performances, proving that he still has plenty to offer at the highest level. Meanwhile, Onana has continued to divide opinions with his unpredictable displays.

Critics have often joked that Manchester United are using a midfielder as their first-choice goalkeeper, referencing Onana’s occasional lapses in concentration. While his distribution skills are among the best in Europe, his shot-stopping ability and decision-making have repeatedly come into question. This has forced new United boss Ruben Amorim to explore potential replacements.

According to reports from Fichajes, Espanyol’s Joan Garcia is also on United’s radar, but Lunin has emerged as the preferred candidate. At 26, the Ukrainian goalkeeper has demonstrated his quality whenever called upon, particularly during Thibaut Courtois’ lengthy absence due to injury.

Lunin’s role at Real Madrid grew significantly after Courtois suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during a training session. With Courtois sidelined for most of the season and Chelsea loanee Kepa Arrizabalaga struggling to cement his place, Lunin stepped up to the challenge. His performances were particularly impressive in the Champions League, where he played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s quarter-final victory against Manchester City.

During that tie, Lunin made headlines by saving two penalties in a dramatic shootout, securing Real Madrid’s progression in the tournament. He also matched Courtois’ record of nine saves in a single Champions League match, further solidifying his credentials as an elite goalkeeper.

Despite his heroics, Lunin faces an uncertain future at Real Madrid. With Courtois reclaiming the No. 1 spot upon his return, the Ukrainian could once again find himself on the bench. While he signed a new contract in 2024 that extends his stay at the Bernabéu until 2030, the lack of regular playing time may push him toward an exit.

Manchester United’s interest in Lunin aligns with their history of conducting high-profile transfers with Real Madrid. Over the years, several big names have switched between the two clubs, including Casemiro, Raphael Varane, Angel Di Maria, Ruud van Nistelrooy, David Beckham, and the iconic Cristiano Ronaldo.

Lunin’s potential move to Old Trafford could offer him the opportunity to become a first-choice goalkeeper at a top European club. United’s goalkeeping department has been a subject of debate ever since De Gea’s departure, and securing Lunin could provide much-needed stability.

Real Madrid, however, may not be too keen on selling their second-choice goalkeeper, given Courtois’ recent injury struggles. The Spanish club may demand a higher transfer fee or seek a replacement before sanctioning Lunin’s departure.

United’s willingness to invest heavily in a new goalkeeper suggests that Amorim is determined to address the team’s defensive vulnerabilities. The Premier League giants have already made significant changes to their squad since the Portuguese manager’s arrival, and a new goalkeeper could be another key piece of the puzzle.

The Red Devils have endured a turbulent season, with inconsistent performances in both domestic and European competitions. Onana’s errors have cost the team crucial points, adding to the pressure on the Cameroonian shot-stopper. If United are to challenge for major honors, upgrading their goalkeeping options might be a necessary step.

While Onana remains a talented goalkeeper, his performances have not been consistent enough to convince the United hierarchy that he is the long-term solution. A move for Lunin indicates that the club is looking for a more composed and reliable presence between the posts.

It remains to be seen whether Real Madrid will entertain Manchester United’s approach for Lunin. If the Ukrainian does make the switch, he will be stepping into a club with enormous expectations, but also an opportunity to establish himself as a first-choice goalkeeper in one of the world’s biggest leagues.

As the summer transfer window approaches, this potential move could be one of the most talked-about transfers. With Manchester United’s ambitions clear, securing a top-class goalkeeper could be pivotal in their bid to return to the top of English and European football.