Manchester United may have closed their business in the English transfer window, but the drama is far from over at Old Trafford. Reports emerging this week reveal that United are poised to overhaul their goalkeeping ranks while also activating a surprise contract clause for Jadon Sancho — all as part of a wider squad reshuffle still in motion thanks to open transfer windows in Turkey and Saudi Arabia.
Goalkeeping Overhaul Looms at Old Trafford
Despite finalizing their summer dealings before the Premier League deadline, Manchester United remain active behind the scenes, especially with departures still possible to clubs in countries where the transfer window remains open.
The latest twist involves United’s goalkeeping situation. According to multiple reports, including one from Fichajes, the club may part ways with André Onana — just one year after his high-profile move from Inter Milan. The speculation follows the arrival of Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens on deadline day, who joined for a reported fee of £18 million plus add-ons.
Lammens is widely tipped to become United’s new No.1, pushing both Onana and backup Altay Bayindir closer to the exit door. The pair have come under scrutiny for their inconsistent performances, and United appear ready to make a bold change.
Maignan Lined Up as Long-Term Replacement
While Lammens may take over in the short term, United are reportedly eyeing AC Milan’s Mike Maignan as their long-term solution between the posts. The French international, whose contract with Milan expires next year, has emerged as a top target for the club heading into the 2025 summer window.
The same Fichajes report claims Maignan is viewed internally as the ideal fit for Erik ten Hag’s evolving project, offering stability and quality after a turbulent season in goal.
Sancho’s Exit Delayed as United Protect Their Asset
Meanwhile, winger Jadon Sancho, who completed a deadline-day loan move to Aston Villa, is also at the center of United’s strategic planning. Despite his uncertain future at the club, sources suggest United will trigger a one-year contract extension in Sancho’s deal — keeping him tied to the club until 2027.
Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke explained that United’s move is not necessarily a sign of long-term commitment, but rather a protective measure to avoid losing the England international on a free transfer next summer.
United, just to protect themselves and their asset, will probably take up that option to extend Jadon Sancho’s contract, t would be good for United because it would put him in the shop window and potentially increase his price tag ahead of next summer.
Pete O’Rourke
Sancho is one of several high-profile players to exit Old Trafford this summer, joining a group that includes Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, and Antony — all of whom have been linked with or secured moves away from the club as part of Ten Hag’s squad rebuild.
What This Means for United’s Future
United’s actions signal a proactive approach as they aim to stabilize their squad and prepare for next season. Rebuilding their goalkeeping department and managing outgoing players like Sancho strategically shows that the club is thinking long-term — even with the current campaign already underway.
With Maignan on the radar and Sancho’s value protected, all eyes now turn to how the rest of the September transfer windows unfold, especially with Saudi and Turkish clubs still actively shopping for talent.