The search of Manchester United for midfield reinforcements has taken twist, when Aston Villa’s Amadou Onana emerging as an efficient late-window target.
Onana, who was overlooked under ex-boss Erik ten Hag, is returned on the board of new manager Ruben Amorim as United scramble for solutions before the transfer deadline on September 1.
The Old Trafford club have already been busy this summer, sealing the signings of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, and Diego Leon. Yet, midfield remains a glaring concern. United’s failed pursuit of Brighton’s Carlos Baleba highlighted their struggle. While the player was keen on the move, Brighton’s demand of over £100 million proved an insurmountable obstacle.
Focus has now switched to Onana. Reports claim that United considered him previously, but Ten Hag vetoed the move in favour of a loan deal for Sofyan Amrabat from Fiorentina. With Amorim in charge, the club could revisit the option, though Onana’s long-term contract with Villa—running until 2029—poses a significant challenge.
At 24, Onana is seen as the type of player United desperately need: a commanding defensive midfielder capable of anchoring the midfield, regaining control in possession, and liberating captain Bruno Fernandes to focus on linking up with attacking players. His profile matches the tactical balance Amorim is believed to be seeking.
Interest in Onana is not limited to Manchester United. Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli are reportedly monitoring him closely, potentially complicating any move with lucrative offers. Despite this, United are yet to make an official approach.
United’s urgency stems from a disappointing start to their Premier League campaign. A narrow defeat to Arsenal exposed their lack of depth in midfield, sparking concerns that the squad is not equipped to handle the season’s demands. Amorim himself hinted at the growing pressure to add reinforcements.
“I’m really happy with our [midfield] players, they are working really well,” Amorim said after the loss. “We have different players for that position, so we are prepared to win any game with our players. Maybe Mason Mount is a player that can play in that position if we want something different, but then we are going to find out during the season.”
Mount’s potential redeployment into a deeper role underlines the shortage of natural defensive midfielders currently available at United. While Scott McTominay provides energy, and Casemiro brings experience, the team still lacks consistency in that pivotal role. Onana’s arrival could address those concerns and provide Amorim with greater tactical flexibility.
United’s transfer activity may not stop with midfield. Questions remain over their goalkeeping situation after Andre Onana was absent from the squad that faced Arsenal. Speculation persists that United could also look to bring in a new goalkeeper before the deadline.
As the clock ticks down on the transfer window, United face a crucial period. The potential addition of Amadou Onana could reshape their midfield and strengthen their push to regain competitiveness in the Premier League. However, prising him away from Villa will require both determination and a significant financial outlay.
