The Athletic: Shopping for Amorim and Man Utd: Martinez, Chevalier and other goalkeeping options

Manchester United faces a complex goalkeeping situation ahead of the 2025-26 season after Andre Onana's hamstring injury ruled him out of the pre-season tour. Onana's inconsistent form last season and the uncertainty around backups Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton add pressure on the club to strengthen this position before the transfer window closes.

Head coach Rúben Amorim prefers goalkeepers who are dependable, physically commanding, and straightforward in style, reflecting his 3-4-3 system where the goalkeeper is less involved in early build-up play. This contrasts with the previous emphasis on ball-playing keepers like Onana, highlighting a potential shift in recruitment priorities.

Among the potential signings is Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa, a World Cup winner known for his aerial dominance and pragmatic style. Martinez offers experience and reliability but had a dip in form last season. Another candidate is Botafogo’s John Victor, a tall goalkeeper with excellent long passing, considered more as a backup option.

Andriy Lunin, Real Madrid’s deputy goalkeeper, is a standout candidate for the starting role. At 26, he has proven himself with 12 clean sheets last season and displays sharp reflexes and solid command of his area. His simple distribution style fits Amorim’s system, and a move to United could give him the No. 1 status he seeks.

For the backup goalkeeper role, Senne Lammens of Royal Antwerp is a promising young talent. At 23, he excelled in shot-stopping last season, preventing many expected goals despite Antwerp’s leaky defense. His height and solid distribution make him an intriguing option, though adaptation to the Premier League’s pace remains a question.

Zion Suzuki, a 22-year-old American-born goalkeeper now at Parma, impresses with exceptional distribution skills, including long, precise goal kicks and chipped through balls. His quick reactions and ability to claim high balls earned him recognition in Serie A, making him a potential long-term asset for United.

Lucas Chevalier of Lille is a high-profile stretch target. At 23, he combines excellent shot-stopping with sweeper-keeper qualities, comfortable playing outside the box and initiating attacks. Though costly, his style resembles that of Pep Guardiola’s ideal goalkeeper, making him a future star if United can secure his signature.

United’s decision to sign a goalkeeper this summer hinges on Onana’s recovery and form. Confidence and stability are crucial for goalkeepers, and Onana’s mistakes last season undermined trust. Amorim and the recruitment team face the challenge of bringing certainty to this vital position before the new season starts in just over three weeks.