Turbulent Start Spurs Transfer Action
After a lackluster opening to the 2025/26 Premier League season, Manchester United are moving quickly to reinforce their goalkeeping department. Under new manager Rúben Amorim, the Red Devils have collected just one point from their first two matches—a 2-1 defeat to Arsenal and a frustrating draw against Fulham.
One of the key concerns has been the performance of Turkish goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, who has started both games ahead of last season’s struggling number one, André Onana. Bayindir’s decision-making and aerial presence have come under fire—most notably from club legend Gary Neville, who didn’t hold back in his Sky Sports analysis.
“It’s not a good look for Bayindir,” Neville remarked, referring to a flapped clearance against Fulham. “At 27, you expect more composure. It’s putting pressure on the entire backline.”
Amorim Responds to Goalkeeper Scrutiny
Manager Rúben Amorim acknowledged the growing goalkeeper debate during his post-match press conference at Craven Cottage.
“I base my selections on performance in training, pre-season, and games,” Amorim said. “In the Premier League, corner situations are common. We scored from a goal kick and had multiple chances—we just need to be more consistent.”
Despite Amorim’s attempts to calm the narrative, it’s clear the club is taking action behind the scenes.
Incoming and Outgoing Deals on the Horizon
According to Football Insider, Manchester United are on the verge of completing two goalkeeper deals, potentially within the next few days. The report claims:
- One current goalkeeper is set to leave Old Trafford, although it remains unclear whether that will be Bayindir or Onana.
- Tom Heaton is likely to stay on as third-choice.
- Senne Lammens, the highly-rated 22-year-old Belgian from Royal Antwerp, is expected to join before the transfer window closes.
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano confirmed ongoing negotiations, revealing on his YouTube channel that Lammens is eager to make the move, with personal terms already agreed.
“Talks are advancing between the clubs,” Romano said. “United started with a €17 million offer plus €3m in add-ons, but Antwerp now want closer to €25 million. There’s no final agreement yet, but things are progressing.”
Importantly, Romano emphasized that Onana’s position at the club isn’t under immediate threat, and that Lammens is being viewed as a long-term project.
What’s Next for United’s Goalkeeping Unit?
The next few days could reshape Manchester United’s goalkeeping hierarchy. With both Bayindir and Onana under the spotlight, and a promising young prospect on the brink of arrival, Amorim faces a critical decision on who will wear the gloves moving forward.
The Red Devils need stability at the back to steady their rocky start. Whether the answer lies in youth, experience, or a combination of both remains to be seen—but changes are coming fast at Old Trafford.
