Reports emerged this week suggesting West Ham United were exploring a loan move for Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana.
However, multiple sources close to both clubs have moved quickly to cool the speculation, stressing that no formal talks have taken place and that the Cameroonian shot-stopper remains central to United’s plans for the 2025/26 season.
Onana, who joined Manchester United from Inter Milan in the summer of 2023, endured a turbulent first year at Old Trafford. Early mistakes in the Champions League drew criticism, yet he steadily grew into his role as Erik ten Hag’s No. 1.
By the close of last season, the 29-year-old had regained confidence and established himself as a dependable presence between the posts. Given that trajectory, United sources insist there is no desire to part with him—temporarily or permanently—this summer.
West Ham Rumours Overplayed
The Hammers, looking to strengthen under Julen Lopetegui, were linked with exploring high-profile loan solutions in goal. But while their search is ongoing, United have poured cold water on the Onana speculation.
According to insiders, there have been no talks—direct or informal—about a loan deal. West Ham may be active in the market, but Onana is not a name realistically on their list at this stage.
Senne Lammens Negotiations Don’t Affect Onana
Part of the confusion stems from United’s simultaneous negotiations for young Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens, currently with RB Salzburg. The 22-year-old, capped at youth international level, is seen as a long-term project and potential deputy rather than an immediate replacement.
Discussions with Salzburg are ongoing, but sources emphasize that his arrival would not push Onana out the door. Instead, United view Lammens as someone who can grow within the squad structure, offering depth behind Onana and Altay Bayındır.
The club wants a strong goalkeeping unit that balances experience and potential, ensuring cover for multiple competitions across a demanding season.
Onana’s Standing at United
While Onana’s first campaign was scrutinized heavily, Ten Hag and the coaching staff have maintained faith in the keeper’s attributes—particularly his ball distribution, command of the box, and ability to initiate play from the back. Those qualities were key reasons United spent close to £47 million to bring him from Inter, and the club believes he remains integral to their tactical blueprint.
Furthermore, Onana’s leadership in the dressing room is valued. Having already worked with Ten Hag at Ajax, he is considered a trusted figure who understands the manager’s philosophy. For those reasons, United insiders describe the suggestion of an exit as “premature and unfounded.”
Looking Ahead
As United continue to reshape their squad under the new INEOS-led structure, speculation around high-profile names is inevitable. But when it comes to André Onana, the message is consistent: he is not leaving this summer. Negotiations for Senne Lammens are a forward-thinking addition rather than a signal of change at the top of the pecking order.
For West Ham, attention is expected to turn elsewhere in their pursuit of goalkeeping reinforcements. For United, Onana remains the first choice—tasked with anchoring their back line as they seek to push back into the Premier League’s top four and beyond.
