Man Utd make Andre Onana plans during AFCON as agent meetings cancelled

15 November 2023 , 04:00

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Manchester United have gone into the international break as the form team in the top flight despite the noise surrounding their season.

They've endured a minor recovery having begun the campaign poorly with Erik ten Hag by no means turning things around yet, despite having the support of the board at Old Trafford. A hefty injury list is adding to the issues so they brief pause will be welcomed by the playing group and medical staff.

News around the imminent minority takeover continues with Sir Jim Ratcliffe's purchase yet to be announced. Despite that he's already making plans for his involvement, including appointments and recruitment.

Here's the latest news from United.

Club's stance on Onana

United are increasingly resigned to losing Andre Onana to the Africa Cup of Nations once the New Year comes round. The tournament begins in January and finishes in February, which could force United to be without first-choice keeper Onana for up to six games.

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When United secured Onana's signature from Inter Milan for £45million in the summer, they understood that he would not be returning to international football with Cameroon given he retired from last December having clashed with Cameroon coach Rigobert Song at the World Cup.

But Onana has since opted for a U-turn, returning for Cameroon's final AFCON qualifier against Burundi in September and playing against Senegal last month as he continues to reintegrate himself back into the picture. No.2 Altay Bayindir, signed from Fenerbahce for £4.3m in the summer, is expected to deputise.

Ten Hag open to Antony offers

Ten Hag is reportedly happy to listen to offers for Antony in January - less than 18 months after forking out £82million to land the forward from Ajax.

The Brazil was a big hit under Ten Hag in Amsterdam but has struggled to replicate that form in the Premier League. So far this term Antony has failed to register a single-goal contribution in 12 appearances whilst also dealing with problems off the pitch.

According to The Sun is Ten Hag expected to receive a hefty transfer budget in the January transfer window courtesy of prospective United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, but he is also willing to consider offers for the underperforming trio of Antony, Jadon Sancho and Anthony Martial.

Agent meetings cancelled

United have underlined their faith in Ten Hag as several agents begin attempts to tout clients for his job.

The Dutchman has found himself under mounting pressure this term after overseeing the club's worst start to a season since 1962. Successive wins over Fulham and Luton have earned Ten Hag some respite heading into the international break, although performances have still been far from convincing.

ESPN report that club officials have become 'frustrated' with individuals who have attempted to suggest other managers to replace Ten Hag and have refused to meet with certain agents who are looking to drive their own agenda as the expense of the Dutchman.