Manchester United Advised to Pursue Towering Goalkeeper Seen as Major Improvement Over Onana
Former Manchester United assistant manager Rene Meulensteen has voiced his backing for the idea of bringing Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma to Old Trafford. Speaking in an exclusive chat with Man U News via Poker Strategy, Meulensteen, who previously worked under Sir Alex Ferguson, believes the Italian shot-stopper could be a major upgrade for Ruben Amorim’s squad if a move happens this summer.
He described Donnarumma as a physically dominant presence who’s already proven himself in top-level competitions like the Champions League. While acknowledging that Donnarumma isn’t as skilled with the ball at his feet as André Onana, Meulensteen questioned whether United’s current system actually needs a sweeper-keeper. In his view, what matters more now is a dependable figure in goal.
Meulensteen went further, stating that Donnarumma would likely take over as United’s first-choice goalkeeper if signed, suggesting Onana could lose his starting role. He also argued that Donnarumma, combined with improvements to the defensive line, could help Manchester United build one of the Premier League’s strongest backlines.
As for whether a transfer is on the cards, Donnarumma reportedly hasn’t ruled out a move to England, though he may still stay at PSG if a new contract is agreed. His current deal has less than a year left, but negotiations for an extension appear to have hit a snag, with PSG looking to cut his salary — something the player’s camp is resisting. There’s speculation that links to Premier League clubs may be a strategic move to pressure PSG into offering better terms.
Manchester City and Chelsea are also believed to be watching the situation closely. However, some observers think these rumours may simply be part of a negotiation tactic rather than serious interest from the clubs. Meanwhile, despite the buzz, there is no solid evidence yet that United have made contact with Donnarumma or PSG.
Even if the Italian doesn’t join, the debate around Onana’s performances continues. Many supporters feel the club needs strong competition for the Cameroonian keeper heading into the new season. Though Donnarumma hasn’t been officially linked with United by trusted sources, Meulensteen’s comments have intensified ongoing discussions among fans and pundits about whether Onana should remain the long-term number one.
