Manchester United have set their sights on Aston Villa midfielder Amadou Onana ahead of the summer transfer window, according to Swiss journalist Sacha Tavolieri of Sky Sport Switzerland.
United Prepare Bid for Aston Villa Star Amadou Onana
The Old Trafford club actively seek two new midfielders as they prepare for the departure of out-of-contract veteran Casemiro.
United could also lose Manuel Ugarte, who has attracted interest from several Italian clubs.
United previously targeted Onana before his £50 million move from Everton to Villa Park in the summer of 2024.
The Belgian international signed a five-year contract with Unai Emery’s side, tying him to the club until 2029.
Tavolieri reports that Onana could leave Villa for a “significant” fee this summer. The Midlands club hold a strong negotiating position thanks to his long-term deal. Villa could strengthen that position further if they secure a return to the Champions League.
Emery’s men currently sit fourth in the Premier League with seven matches remaining, just one point behind third-placed United.
Onana has played a key role in Villa’s push for European qualification. He has made 22 league appearances this season and scored two goals.
A major midfield rebuild looms at Old Trafford. The expected exits of Casemiro and Ugarte would leave Kobbie Mainoo as United’s only natural central midfielder. The club therefore plan multiple signings ahead of the new season.
Alongside Onana, United have also watched Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, though he appears to favour a move to rivals Manchester City.
Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali and Southampton’s Shea Charles, valued at £20 million, also feature on the club’s radar.
United scouts have monitored Charles this season and see him as a potential bargain. However, Onana remains a primary target as the club moves forward with its summer recruitment plans.
