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Manchester United are reportedly considering a £30m move for Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen as they search for a potential replacement for an unsettled Andre Onana.
Onana, who joined United from Inter Milan for £47 million in the summer of 2023, has had a challenging time at Old Trafford, especially following the sacking of Erik ten Hag in October and the appointment of Ruben Amorim. According to reports from the Daily Star, Onana’s dissatisfaction with life at Manchester United has intensified since Amorim took over, adding to concerns that had already existed before Ten Hag’s departure.
United are now reportedly eyeing Verbruggen as a possible replacement. The 22-year-old has impressed since becoming Brighton’s first-choice goalkeeper, edging out Jason Steele and also securing the starting role for the Netherlands. He was signed by Brighton for £16 million in the same summer Onana arrived at United and currently has three years left on his contract.
To sign Verbruggen, United would need to pay around £30m, although a move in January seems unlikely. This could mean the Red Devils will have to wait until the summer to secure his services.
Both Onana and backup goalkeeper Altay Bayindir have faced heavy criticism following several high-profile errors, including Bayindir conceding a goal directly from a corner in the Carabao Cup defeat to Tottenham and Onana repeating the mistake a week later in a loss to Wolves.
In addition to Verbruggen, United have also been linked with Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens of Royal Antwerp. Lammens, a Belgian international, has impressed since joining Antwerp in 2023 and has attracted interest from clubs like Borussia Dortmund and Leeds. Reports suggest that United have already sent scouts to observe him in action.
However, the club faces financial limitations under the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Regulations (PSR), making any potential signings difficult. According to sources, Marcus Rashford could be sold if a suitable offer is found, which may help free up funds. A potential loan deal with an obligation to buy has also been suggested, though it may not provide much financial flexibility for new acquisitions.
United’s struggles this season have left them in 14th place, just eight points above the relegation zone, and they will return to action on Monday night against Newcastle United.
