Transfer windows are often filled with tough decisions, and West Ham made one of the boldest yet.
Despite their own goalkeeper struggles at the start of the season, the Hammers decided to turn down the chance to sign Manchester United’s Andre Onana, believing he was no better than what they already had.
Why West Ham Said No
United reportedly offered Onana on loan, but West Ham’s hierarchy felt the Cameroonian wouldn’t be an upgrade on Mads Hermansen or Alphonse Areola.
Both keepers have had rocky starts—Hermansen conceded eight goals in his first two league matches, including three from corners against Chelsea, while Areola was at fault during a League Cup defeat to Wolves.
Even with these shaky performances, club insiders told Daily Mail Sport that Onana wasn’t considered an improvement, with the Hammers continuing to look elsewhere for a new signing before the window closes.
Defensive Struggles Spark New Search
The 5-1 thrashing by Chelsea was enough for West Ham bosses to head back into the market for reinforcements.
They have reignited their interest in Botafogo’s John Victor, a keeper they see as a better fit than United’s struggling shot-stopper.
Onana’s Fall at United
Meanwhile, life at Old Trafford hasn’t been easy for Onana.
Signed to be United’s long-term No. 1, he has instead endured a string of costly errors.
Manager Ruben Amorim has now dropped him in favor of Altay Bayindir, with Onana featuring in the shock penalty defeat to League Two side Grimsby.
Amorim Defends His Team
After that embarrassing result, Amorim tried to shield his keeper from criticism.
“It’s not about Andre,” he said. “The best team won, but we lost to a fourth-division side. It’s not just the goalkeeper—it’s everybody.”
Still, the comments did little to disguise the reality: Onana has slipped down the pecking order, and other clubs—like West Ham—are not rushing to take him either.
