Manchester United have reportedly made a £50 million offer to sign Everton midfielder Amadou Onana as they aim to strengthen their midfield this summer.
According to Spanish sports newspaper Mundo Deportivo, United’s proposal includes “55 million fixed pounds and five variables, along with a significant salary” for the 22-year-old Belgian international.
Onana, currently representing Belgium at Euro 2024, has attracted interest from top European clubs including Barcelona and Arsenal.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona views Onana as their top choice for the defensive midfield role this summer.
However, financial difficulties at Camp Nou present significant challenges to securing the transfer. Barcelona’s executives think Onana, with his fine skills and big build, would really make their team better.
Likewise, Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, likes how Onana wins aerial duals and is good in the air.
Arteta believes the Belgian could help Declan Rice move up and play like he did in his first year at Arsenal.
But, it looks like United might beat the others to it. Manager Erik ten Hag is keen to fortify his midfield with a player of Onana’s skillset, following a season where midfield performance was inconsistent.
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While Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes solidified their spots in ten Hag’s lineup, the third midfield position remained uncertain.
Casemiro, who was outstanding in his first year in England, struggled this season with erratic tackles and failing to keep up with opposition midfielders.
Loan signing Sofyan Amrabat from Fiorentina and regulars Christian Eriksen and Scott McTominay also failed to impress, highlighting the need for a robust defensive midfielder.
With Ten Hag confirmed to continue as United’s manager after a comprehensive season review by INEOS, the club prioritizes adding an athletic midfielder capable of covering large areas on the field—qualities that Onana possesses in abundance.
Additionally, Onana’s 6’5″ height would complement the presence of Lisandro Martinez at centre-back, addressing the need for aerial strength in United’s defense.
From Everton’s perspective, the club faces financial pressure under the Premier League’s Profits and Sustainability Rules (PSR) and needs to generate significant revenue by June 30 to comply with regulations.
While Everton demands £75 million for their young defender Jarrad Branthwaite, they are more open to Onana’s departure.
A £50 million offer for Onana is more likely to succeed than United’s initial bid for Branthwaite.
As the transfer window progresses and the June 30 deadline approaches, this deal is one to watch closely, with United eager to secure Onana to bolster their midfield for the upcoming season.
