Sources: Man United accelerate Amadou Onana signing plan, they’ve already made ‘move’
Man United are keeping a close eye on Aston Villa midfielder Amadou Onana as they accelerate plans to bolster their squad ahead of the summer window.
United have been long-term admirers of the 24-year-old and were interested in signing him from Everton when Villa snapped him up for £50million in 2024.
However, with the club aiming to strengthen in midfield, they have now set their sights on the Belgium international as one of their top targets for the position.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Michael Carrick‘s side are continuing to keep tabs on Onana‘s situation.
Onana has established himself as a key part of Unai Emery’s side, but recently cast doubt over his future by confessing he wants to play for a “world-class club”.
Man United set sights on signing Amadou Onana
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Onana is edging towards leaving Aston Villa, although it would take a big offer to lure him away.
United’s long-term interest, dating back to his time at Everton, could see them make a fresh move for the midfielder should they miss out on other key targets.
However, it could be difficult to land Onana as he joined Aston Villa for £50million in 2024, and they will be looking to make a profit from his sale.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “Yeah, it’ll be an interesting one.
“Obviously, United did make a late move to try and sign Onana from Everton before he made that big £50m move to Aston Villa.
“I think right now, I’m sure United have continued to keep tabs on Onana, who has become a key man for Unai Emery’s side.
“Casemiro is leaving at the end of season. There’s doubts over Ugarte’s future as well.
“So look, they’re going to need strengthening in that midfield position.
“Onana is a player that they’ve had previous interest in. So I think it’s one of those where he probably still remains on the list, but he’s probably not at the top of it.”
Who else is on Man United’s midfield shortlist?
Onana is not the only name on Man United’s shortlist as they eye a number of potential options to strengthen their midfield come the summer.
Football Insider revealed in January that Man United are watching Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton, who are at the top of their list of targets.
Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba is also believed to be on their list after they missed out on signing him last summer due to his lofty asking price.
Football Insider revealed in September that Man United are desperate to sign a new midfielder when the window opens, with a number of options on their radar.
Their priority shifted in the mid-season window following Carrick’s arrival, but the position will be revisited come the summer given their possible departures.
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