United’s dreams of replacing big-time liability with Serie A “MVP” come crashing down as player says “no” to INEOS – report

A cursory glance at last season’s statistics will show that Manchester United need to improve their attack first and foremost ahead of the new season, which is exactly what INEOS are doing.

Matheus Cunha has already been confirmed as the summer’s first arrival, with Bryan Mbeumo looking likely to be the club’s second signing, after which focus will shift to adding a striker to the mix.

Viktor Gyokeres appears to be the preferred choice at present. Should funds permit, Ruben Amorim would also love to bring in a new goalkeeper to replace Andre Onana.

The Cameroonian has been shocking since his arrival in the summer of 2023, consistently making errors in both the Premier League and Europe, and the head coach is sick and tired of this.

Amorim would like to change Onana in goal

Emiliano Martinez of Aston Villa has been linked with a move to Old Trafford, as has AC Milan’s Mike Maignan. But the Frenchman seems to have other ideas.

As per Tuttomercatoweb, the Milan skipper has said no to INEOS’ proposal, and is instead looking forward to a move to Stamford Bridge with Chelsea able to offer him Champions League football.

The report also added that the Rossoneri have not given up hope of keeping their “MVP” at the San Siro, and they have rejected the Blues’ first offer of just over €15 million.

But as things stand, Mike Maignan is likely to be headed to London, ideally before the start of the Club World Cup.

“London calls, Mike Maignan answers. The French goalkeeper is now one step away from Chelsea, despite the attempts – probably late – of Milan and the desire of Massimiliano Allegri to keep him.

Mike Maignan has turned down United

“The Blues’ first offer, just over €15 million, was rejected by Giorgio Furlani and Igli Tare, but negotiations continue. Milan urgently need to sell to avoid losing Maignan on a free transfer in 2026, after the sudden halt to renewal negotiations.

“The goalkeeper, eager to compete in the Premier League and return to the Champions League, has already said no to Manchester United, who are out of Europe.

“Enzo Maresca has specifically asked for Maignan to raise the bar between the posts at Chelsea. Objective: to close everything by June 10, in time for the Club World Cup. The deal could close around €25 million, between fixed amount and bonuses.”

This means INEOS will have to head back to the drawing board for goalkeeping reinforcements. And as things stand, Onana is likely to start in between the sticks unless a dramatic solution can be found.

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