Manchester United are stepping up their pursuit of Aston Villa midfielder Amadou Onana as plans gather pace ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Belgium international has long been admired at Old Trafford, with interest dating back to his time at Everton before his £50 million switch to Villa in 2024. Now, with midfield changes expected, United have again placed him firmly on their radar.
According to transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke, United have already made contact and continue to monitor Onana’s situation closely. The 24-year-old has developed into a key figure under Unai Emery, but recent comments about wanting to compete at a “world-class club” have inevitably fuelled speculation about his long-term future.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, O’Rourke explained:
“Yeah, it’ll be an interesting one.”
“Obviously, United did make a late move to try and sign Onana from Everton before he made that big £50m move to Aston Villa.”
“I think right now, I’m sure United have continued to keep tabs on Onana, who has become a key man for Unai Emery’s side.”
He added that midfield reshaping is firmly on the agenda at Old Trafford.
“Casemiro is leaving at the end of season. There’s doubts over Ugarte’s future as well.”
“So look, they’re going to need strengthening in that midfield position.”
“Onana is a player that they’ve had previous interest in. So I think it’s one of those where he probably still remains on the list, but he’s probably not at the top of it.”
Villa are understood to value Onana highly and would demand a significant fee, particularly given the £50 million outlay made to secure his services. Any departure would likely require a profit, placing United in a position where they must weigh financial commitment against alternative targets.
Indeed, Onana is not the only midfielder under consideration. Elliot Anderson, Adam Wharton and Brighton’s Carlos Baleba have also been linked, with United expected to reassess their shortlist once the season concludes and squad clarity improves.
From a broader perspective, this feels like a move shaped as much by opportunity as necessity. If Casemiro does depart and uncertainty remains around other options, United will require a physical presence capable of dominating central areas. Onana fits that profile, but Villa hold a strong hand. For United, the coming months may determine whether this is renewed admiration or the beginning of a genuine transfer battle.