Manchester United are eyeing Royal Antwerp’s Senne Lammens as a potential solution to their goalkeeping woes, with the 23-year-old shot-stopper set for a £17 million transfer from Belgium. Here’s why Lammens is seen as the heir to Thibaut Courtois’ throne.
Manchester United’s long-standing issues with goalkeeping have reached a critical point. With Andre Onana’s struggles to maintain consistency and Altay Bayindir’s lackluster performances, the Red Devils are determined to solve the glaring weakness between the posts. Enter Senne Lammens, a 23-year-old shot-stopper from Royal Antwerp who looks poised to take on one of the toughest roles in European football.
A New Era for United’s Goalkeeper
As Gary Neville recently stated on Sky Sports, “There is a glaring issue for Manchester United… they need to find a new goalkeeper.” This has become an undeniable truth for the club, who have already witnessed costly errors from their current options. Lammens, with his potential, is now seen as the solution to this long-standing crisis.
United’s goalkeeping saga reached its peak after a blunder from Bayindir in the season opener against Arsenal, followed by another lackluster performance in a 1-1 draw with Fulham. Both players have failed to establish themselves as reliable figures between the posts, prompting United to explore new options. Enter Lammens, who has been linked with a £17 million move to Old Trafford, with personal terms already reportedly agreed upon.
Lammens’ Rise in Belgium
Lammens’ football journey began at the age of five, joining KRC Bambrugge before moving through the youth ranks at Club Brugge. His rise to prominence was swift, and by 2019, he was named in Brugge’s Champions League squad at just 16 years old. Despite a lack of immediate first-team chances, Lammens made headlines in December 2019 by scoring a last-minute equalizer for Brugge’s U19s in a UEFA Youth League match against Real Madrid, showcasing his ambition and skill.
Though his development was slightly delayed due to the presence of established goalkeepers like Simon Mignolet, Lammens seized his opportunity when Brugge’s U23s struggled in Belgium’s second division. His big break came when he was handed a starting role in the Belgian Super Cup final in 2021, leading Brugge to a 3-2 victory.
A Strong Move to Antwerp
In 2023, after his contract with Brugge expired, Lammens joined Royal Antwerp, where he flourished under the guidance of former Bayern Munich legend Mark van Bommel. In his first season, Lammens was instrumental in Antwerp’s run to the Belgian Cup final, saving four penalties and securing 10 clean sheets. His stellar performances led to a call-up to the Belgium national team, and rumors of a move to United began to swirl.
Lammens: The Modern Goalkeeper
Lammens is a modern goalkeeper—tall, commanding, and capable with his feet. His 6’3 stature is complemented by agility and strong decision-making, making him well-suited for the physical demands of Premier League football. His ability to stop one-on-one situations and dominate in aerial duels is a major strength, as United have struggled with both aspects this season.
He has shown exceptional shot-stopping abilities, making more saves than any other goalkeeper in the Belgian Pro League last season. His distribution with both feet is also a standout feature, something Onana has struggled with since his high-profile move to United from Inter Milan.
Room for Improvement
Despite his impressive potential, Lammens is still learning and occasionally prone to mistakes—something that comes with a lack of experience at the top level. As former Brugge scout Bart Tamsyn noted, Lammens can still be a bit rash at times, making unforced errors that have led to goals. However, these lapses in concentration are expected at his age and experience level.
Could Lammens Be United’s Next No.1?
The comparisons between Lammens and Thibaut Courtois are inevitable due to their similar stature and playing style. Courtois, widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, has set the benchmark for Belgian goalkeepers, and Lammens is being seen as his natural heir. Frank Boeckx, a former Anderlecht goalkeeping coach, has even stated that Lammens could one day match Courtois’ level with proper development.
For United, securing Lammens’ services would represent a major investment in a young, talented goalkeeper with significant room for growth. If he can live up to his potential and iron out his minor flaws, he could be the rock-solid foundation that United have lacked in goal since the days of Edwin van der Sar.
What’s Next for Lammens?
With reports suggesting a £17 million deal is on the brink of completion, Manchester United will likely see Lammens in action soon. The young Belgian goalkeeper has already expressed his excitement at the prospect of playing for a club of United’s stature, stating that the move would be a dream come true. His style of play fits perfectly with the demands of English football, which could see him thrive at Old Trafford.
United fans will be hoping that Lammens’ arrival brings the stability they’ve craved in goal, and that he becomes the dominant No.1 they’ve been searching for since the retirement of David De Gea. If successful, Lammens could be the catalyst for a long-awaited return to the top of the Premier League for Manchester United.
