Manchester United Eyes Five Top Goalkeeper Targets for Transfer Window
Manchester United have bolstered their squad with the acquisitions of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, yet numerous gaps remain to be filled in Ruben Amorim's team ahead of the 2025–26 campaign—with the goalkeeping department being a primary concern among the fanbase.
The inconsistent André Onana has displayed erratic form throughout his two seasons at Old Trafford, despite accumulating over one hundred appearances, while backup keeper Altay Bayındır has typically disappointed when given opportunities.
With several weeks remaining before the summer transfer window closes, United will be carefully evaluating their goalkeeping options. It wouldn't be shocking if the Red Devils decided to strengthen their goalkeeping ranks as they aim to reestablish themselves as a dominant Premier League force.
Sports Illustrated examines five goalkeepers who could address their current problems.
Diogo Costa
Ruben Amorim is familiar with fellow Portuguese Diogo Costa. The ex-Sporting CP boss frequently faced the Porto shot-stopper and understands his abilities, demonstrated at both domestic and international levels. Portugal's number one has repeatedly impressed with his penalty-stopping prowess in recent major tournaments, sparking interest from Europe's top clubs.
United are reportedly among those pursuing Costa, who possesses the capability to develop into one of the world's premier goalkeepers in upcoming seasons. He's already delivering excellent performances with both shot-stopping and distribution, the latter being crucial in Amorim's tactical approach.
His transfer fee would likely reach £50-60 million ($67-81 million) but could represent excellent value over time.
Lucas Chevalier
Few young goalkeepers worldwide currently match Lille's Lucas Chevalier's quality. Only Rennes' Brice Samba recorded more clean sheets than his 11 in Ligue 1 last term, while the 23-year-old also achieved the fourth-highest save percentage (72.7%) in the league—surpassing Paris Saint-Germain's Gianluigi Donnarumma and Marseille's Gerónimo Rulli.
Chevalier's displays have been crucial to Lille securing fourth and fifth-place finishes in recent seasons, with Les Dogues even qualifying for Champions League action in 2023–24. The Frenchman, who has received senior international call-ups without appearing, delivered one of last season's standout performances during a 1–0 triumph over Real Madrid, alongside solid showings against Juventus and Atlético Madrid.
He's already demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level and has the talent to become one of football's elite keepers.
Emiliano Martínez
Aston Villa's Emiliano Martínez has claimed the Yashin Trophy in consecutive years as his aggressive and commanding approach continues to earn recognition. Nevertheless, the World Cup champion seems set to start a fresh journey at 32 this summer as he moves closer to departing Villa Park.
Martínez's final Villa appearance wasn't representative of his recent form—he received a dramatic red card at Old Trafford on the Premier League's closing day—with the Argentine maintaining general consistency for both club and country. The ex-Arsenal keeper's reactions are remarkable and his highlight reel is spectacular.
With United urgently seeking both an elite goalkeeper and natural defensive leader, Martínez could prove an outstanding short-term solution. They have allegedly already made contact regarding his services.
Gregor Kobel
Gregor Kobel might be Europe's most overlooked goalkeeper. The Borussia Dortmund star has consistently ranked among the continent's finest shot-stoppers, frequently working overtime due to BVB's defensive vulnerabilities. A natural sweeper-keeper and reliable distributor, the 27-year-old was outstanding in 2023–24 and performed admirably during a challenging 2024–25 campaign for the German club.
Kobel would certainly command a hefty fee and his valuation has probably deterred previous interested parties—Chelsea are among the clubs previously linked. However, if United desire a dependable presence capable of delivering game-changing saves reminiscent of David de Gea, then the Switzerland international would be an intelligent acquisition.
Mads Hermansen
Mads Hermansen couldn't prevent Leicester City's relegation to the Championship last season, but the 25-year-old concluded the campaign with his reputation enhanced. Injuries restricted his participation in the final stretch, yet the Denmark Under-21 international did enough to boost his standing during his inaugural Premier League season.
Hermansen single-handedly preserved Leicester's chances in numerous matches and delivered spectacular saves to minimize embarrassment when his vulnerable defense crumbled. He possesses tremendous room for growth and valuable Premier League experience, both qualities making him an attractive prospect.
Considering Leicester's dire financial circumstances, United could secure Hermansen at a bargain price.