🚨 BREAKING: Verbal Agreement Reached Between Trabzonspor and Manchester United for André Onana Loan Signing
The goalkeeping saga at Manchester United has taken another dramatic turn. Reliable reports confirm that a verbal agreement has been reached between Trabzonspor and Manchester United for the season-long loan signing of André Onana.
While the deal is not yet signed and sealed, the verbal understanding marks a significant breakthrough in negotiations that have been developing over the past few weeks. Both clubs now expect the final decision to hinge on the player himself, who must decide whether to accept the move or continue to fight for his place at Old Trafford.
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A Rollercoaster Journey at Old Trafford
Onana arrived at Manchester United in July 2023 from Inter Milan in a deal worth around £43 million, brought in to replace long-serving David de Gea. The Cameroonian was seen as the perfect modern goalkeeper: comfortable with the ball at his feet, brave under pressure, and capable of transforming United’s build-up play from the back.
But his first season did not go as planned. High-profile mistakes in the Champions League group stage matches against Bayern Munich and Galatasaray placed him under immediate scrutiny. Even in the Premier League, his decision-making was questioned, and while he produced several standout saves, the errors often overshadowed his performances.
By the end of the campaign, Onana had become one of the most debated figures in Erik ten Hag’s team. And though Ten Hag continued to publicly defend him, United’s wider leadership began to explore alternatives.
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Amorim’s Arrival Changes the Picture
When Rúben Amorim was appointed as United’s new manager, many expected the Portuguese coach to give Onana a fresh start. Amorim even praised his qualities in distribution and composure, which suit his own tactical blueprint.
However, insiders say Amorim quickly realized that the psychological burden weighing on Onana was significant. The goalkeeper had become a lightning rod for fan criticism, with every mistake amplified under the Old Trafford spotlight. As such, United’s hierarchy quietly began considering loan opportunities that would reduce pressure on the player while freeing the manager to test other options.
That’s where Trabzonspor entered the picture.
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Why Trabzonspor?
Trabzonspor have been actively seeking a goalkeeper with European pedigree to strengthen their squad ahead of the new Turkish Super Lig season. Onana, despite his struggles in England, remains highly respected on the continent thanks to his achievements with Ajax and Inter Milan.
From Trabzonspor’s perspective, this is a coup. They would be acquiring a goalkeeper with Champions League experience without committing to a permanent transfer fee. For Onana, the Turkish league represents an opportunity to reset: passionate fans, competitive football, and a chance to escape the relentless English media scrutiny.
The move could also reignite his confidence in a new environment, away from the expectation-heavy stage of Manchester United.
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The Verbal Agreement: What It Means
According to reports, the two clubs have verbally agreed on the key terms of the loan:
Duration: Season-long loan (2024/25).
Wages: Manchester United are prepared to cover part of Onana’s salary, with Trabzonspor contributing significantly.
Option Clause: At this stage, no purchase option has been confirmed, but discussions remain open.
The next step is for Onana himself to give the final approval.
> “The clubs are aligned on the framework of the loan. Now it depends on the player. He must decide if he’s ready for a new chapter in Turkey,” a source close to the talks revealed.
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Onana’s Dilemma
The Cameroonian finds himself at a crossroads. On one hand, leaving after just one season might feel like surrender, an admission that he could not handle the pressures of Old Trafford. On the other, the opportunity to rebuild away from the spotlight could prove invaluable for his career.
If he stays: Onana must fight to win back the trust of fans and teammates. The scrutiny will remain intense, and any mistake could further damage his reputation.
If he leaves: He gets a chance to start fresh, regain confidence, and possibly return to United or secure a permanent move elsewhere in stronger form.
For a player still in his prime at 28, the decision is critical.
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Manchester United’s Perspective
From United’s point of view, the deal makes practical sense. Amorim is restructuring the squad, and the club want to create space for competition in goal. Loaning Onana out reduces financial strain while keeping the possibility open for his return.
It also signals that United are committed to accountability. Under Amorim’s leadership, the mantra is clear: performance dictates opportunities, not past reputation or transfer fees.
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Fans React
The news has sparked debate across the Manchester United fanbase. On social media, opinions are deeply divided.
Some fans welcome the move, saying it relieves pressure and allows the team to move forward without distractions. “Finally, we can stop conceding silly goals and get stability back,” one fan tweeted.
Others argue that United are acting too hastily, pointing out that legendary keepers like David de Gea also needed time to adapt. “He deserves a second season. One tough year doesn’t define a player of his class,” wrote another supporter.
The split opinion reflects the larger debate about United’s identity: are they a patient, developmental club, or one that ruthlessly demands results?
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What Happens Next
The verbal agreement is only the first step. Unless Onana personally agrees to the move, the deal cannot proceed.
United are pressing for clarity in the coming days, with the transfer window clock ticking. If Onana accepts, the club will move swiftly to secure either a temporary replacement or elevate an existing squad member into the starting role. If he refuses, Amorim will need to reintegrate him and prepare him mentally for another season under heavy scrutiny.
For Trabzonspor, the anticipation is high. Their fans have already taken to social media to welcome the Cameroonian, hoping the deal crosses the finish line.
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Conclusion
The news of a verbal agreement between Manchester United and Trabzonspor for André Onana’s loan signing has injected fresh drama into an already turbulent summer for the Red Devils. The clubs are aligned, the terms are set, but the final chapter remains unwritten.
The decision rests with Onana himself. Will he seize the opportunity to reset his career in Turkey, or will he stay at Old Trafford and fight to prove his critics wrong?
Either way, this saga represents more than just a transfer—it is a test of character for a goalkeeper who has known both the heights of Champions League glory and the lows of public criticism.
For now, one thing is clear: Onana’s next move could shape not just his own future, but also Manchester United’s trajectory under Rúben Amorim.
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