Andre Onana is set for a fresh start in Turkey after agreeing to join Trabzonspor on loan from Manchester United for the rest of the season.
The Cameroon goalkeeper, 29, will travel to Turkey on Thursday once the deal between the clubs is finalised.
Reports suggest Trabzonspor have offered him a pay rise, making the move an attractive opportunity for the keeper.
Loan Terms and Club Plans
The loan comes with no fee for Manchester United, and Trabzonspor will not have the option to sign Onana permanently when the agreement expires on June 30.
Onana’s future at Old Trafford has been uncertain all summer, particularly after United pursued a new goalkeeper, ultimately signing Senne Lammens from Antwerp in a £21.7million deal last week.
Despite earlier assurances from United and sources close to the player that he would stay, Onana was reportedly told the club would not block a move if he wished to explore options elsewhere.
A Quick Move as Opportunities Open
Contact with Trabzonspor progressed quickly, especially as the Turkish side was in the process of selling their own goalkeeper, Ugurcan Cakir, to Galatasaray.
The loan move was concluded ahead of the closing of the Turkish transfer window on Friday, allowing Onana to secure regular playing time.
Struggles and Setbacks at Manchester United
Onana has had a difficult two years since joining United from Inter Milan for £47.2million.
The keeper has struggled for consistency and has made several high-profile errors.
His only appearance this season ended in a costly mistake during United’s Carabao Cup defeat to Grimsby Town, while Altay Bayindir has started all three Premier League games.
His situation was further complicated by a hamstring injury sustained on his second day back at pre-season training in July, which kept him out of action for the entire pre-season.
Future at United and Squad Implications
United had previously valued Onana at £30million while continuing to monitor other goalkeeping options, including Lammens and Aston Villa’s Emi Martinez.
The club ultimately opted for Lammens, leaving the door open for Onana to explore a move despite having three years left on his contract.
Onana’s departure paves the way for Lammens to become United’s new No.1, with Bayindir and Tom Heaton serving as back-ups.
The loan also provides flexibility, as Onana is expected to be away at the Africa Cup of Nations over the New Year period.