Manchester United are actively exploring options to strengthen their goalkeeping department this summer, with manager Ruben Amorim making the position a key priority following a disappointing 2024–25 campaign.
The Red Devils slumped to a 15th-place finish in the Premier League—their worst in the modern era—and much of the scrutiny has fallen on first-choice goalkeeper André Onana, who endured a turbulent season marred by a series of high-profile errors. Statistically, no Premier League goalkeeper made more mistakes leading to goals last season than the Cameroonian.
With Onana struggling to live up to expectations since arriving from Inter Milan in 2023, and backup goalkeeper Altay Bayindir failing to impress when given opportunities, United are reportedly open to reshaping the goalkeeper position entirely.
United Monitoring Donnarumma — but Is He the Right Fit?
According to Caught Offside and Manchester Evening News, United have been linked with a move for Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. The Italy international, a Euro 2020 winner and widely regarded as one of the world’s top shot-stoppers, is reportedly unsettled at PSG amid contract renewal difficulties. Donnarumma is entering the final year of his current deal and is said to be seeking a significant wage increase.
With PSG eyeing Lille’s Lucas Chevalier as a potential replacement, the French club may consider selling Donnarumma now rather than risk losing him for free next summer. Manchester City are also reportedly monitoring the situation, making any potential move highly competitive.
While a transfer for Donnarumma would represent a major coup for United, it may not be a realistic or cost-effective solution. The goalkeeper’s wages, potential transfer fee, and the absence of European football at Old Trafford make the move a complicated one.
Mike Maignan: A More Practical—and Ideal—Solution
In light of these challenges, AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan has emerged as a compelling alternative. Valued at just £20 million and in the final year of his contract, the French international represents a more attainable target for United.
Maignan, 30, is currently France’s No. 1 goalkeeper and has been a consistent performer in both Ligue 1 and Serie A. He led Lille to the Ligue 1 title in 2020–21 and followed up with a Serie A championship with Milan in 2021–22. His performances have earned him two appearances in the Serie A Team of the Season, and he was named the league’s best goalkeeper during Milan’s title-winning campaign.
Maignan also brings leadership and composure to the role. He took over as Milan’s captain in October 2024 and has frequently drawn praise from both teammates and opponents alike. Liverpool’s Alisson Becker called him “one of the best in the world,” while France teammate Lucas Hernandez lauded his “incredible serenity” and the security he provides to the entire defensive unit.
Why Maignan Makes Sense for United
Proven Experience: With domestic league titles in two major European leagues, Maignan has the pedigree United need. Leadership Qualities: As a current club captain and France’s No. 1, he would bring a much-needed sense of authority and confidence to United’s backline. Affordability: At £20 million, he represents excellent value in today’s market—especially compared to Donnarumma or other elite-level targets. Motivation to Move: Unlike Donnarumma, Maignan is reportedly open to leaving Milan and may be enticed by the challenge of reviving Manchester United’s fortunes.
Conclusion
Gianluigi Donnarumma may carry the glamour and accolades, but Mike Maignan could prove to be the smarter, more effective signing for Manchester United this summer. With a realistic price tag, a wealth of experience, and the personality to command a struggling defense, Maignan could be the perfect solution to one of United’s most pressing problems.
As United continue reshaping their squad under Amorim, the decision they make in goal could well define the direction of the club for seasons to come.