Andre Onana and His Representatives Hold Talks Over Shock Return to His Former Club

Inter Milan make contact while the goalkeeper weighs up his next move after a mixed spell at Old Trafford

Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana could be on his way out of Old Trafford on a permanent basis next summer, with fresh reports suggesting talks are already taking place behind the scenes about his future.

The Cameroon international is currently enjoying a loan spell in Turkey with Trabzonspor, and the move has quietly helped him rebuild confidence after a turbulent period in England. Since arriving in the Turkish Super Lig, Onana has featured in 16 league matches and has suffered defeat in just three of them. His performances have been a major factor in Trabzonspor’s impressive campaign, with the club sitting third in the table, only behind heavyweights Galatasaray and Fenerbahce.

For a goalkeeper who endured intense scrutiny during his time at Manchester United, the loan move has provided a calmer environment and a chance to remind observers of the qualities that once made him one of Europe’s most sought-after shot stoppers.

Why Onana left Old Trafford

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United agreed to send Onana out on loan earlier this season following the arrival of Senne Lammens, a move that reshaped the goalkeeping hierarchy at the club. Lammens’ signing pushed Onana down the pecking order, and the decision was taken that regular football elsewhere would be better for all parties.

It marked a sharp fall from grace for a player United spent £47.2 million on in the summer of 2023. Onana arrived from Inter Milan with a big reputation, having played a key role in Inter’s run to the Champions League final, where they were narrowly beaten by Manchester City. During his time in Italy, he also lifted the Coppa Italia and the Italian Super Cup, earning widespread praise for his composure on the ball and his shot-stopping ability.

However, his time in Manchester never fully settled. A series of high-profile mistakes, particularly in big matches, quickly made him a lightning rod for criticism. Confidence appeared to drain away, and by the time Lammens arrived, it was clear Onana’s role at United was no longer secure.

Inter Milan interest resurfaces

According to reports from the Daily Mail, Inter Milan are now exploring the possibility of bringing Onana back to the San Siro. His representatives are said to be in Italy holding talks over a potential return to Serie A, with Inter monitoring the situation closely.

The interest is understandable. Inter’s current first-choice goalkeeper, Yann Sommer, is expected to leave the club in the summer, creating a clear opening between the posts. Onana remains highly regarded by the Italian side, not just for his performances during his previous spell but also for his familiarity with the club’s style and demands.

There are also personal ties that could smooth any potential move. Onana reportedly still owns property in Milan, which could make a return more appealing on a personal level.

That said, finances could prove to be a stumbling block. Onana received a pay rise as part of his loan move to Trabzonspor, and matching his current wages may not be straightforward for Inter. With two-and-a-half years still remaining on his Manchester United contract, any permanent deal could require compromise from all sides.

Does Onana still want to return to United?

Despite the growing expectation that he will leave Old Trafford this summer, the report claims Onana has not completely given up hope of fighting his way back into Manchester United’s starting XI. He is believed to still harbour ambitions of reclaiming the number one shirt from Lammens if the opportunity arises.

However, the reality of modern football suggests that scenario may be unlikely. United’s hierarchy are thought to be open to a permanent exit, particularly if it helps ease the wage bill and close the chapter on a transfer that never truly worked out as planned. There is even a suggestion that United may need to pay part of his remaining contract to facilitate a move.

At 29, Onana is at an age where regular football is crucial, and another season spent uncertain of his role would do little to revive his career at the top level.

Wider uncertainty at Old Trafford

Onana’s future is just one of several unresolved issues facing Manchester United as the summer approaches. The club is also dealing with uncertainty at managerial level, despite encouraging signs under interim head coach Michael Carrick.

Carrick has made a strong impression since stepping into the role, guiding United to back-to-back wins over Manchester City and Arsenal. Those results have lifted the club back into the top four and restored some belief among supporters after a difficult period.

Whether Carrick remains in charge long-term is still unclear, but his impact has been undeniable. For players like Onana, however, the direction of the club and the manager’s plans could be decisive in shaping what comes next.

A crossroads moment

Andre Onana’s situation feels like a classic crossroads moment in a modern football career. His loan spell in Turkey has shown he still has plenty to offer, while interest from a club like Inter Milan underlines that his reputation has not completely faded.

Whether he returns to Italy, seeks a fresh start elsewhere, or attempts an unlikely revival at Manchester United, the coming months will be crucial. One thing is clear: the next decision could define the remainder of his career at the highest level.