Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana is reportedly stunned by a recent reduction in his wages. Despite criticism over his performances, the club is said to have placed a high valuation on him, making it clear they are not willing to accept a lower transfer fee. Financial constraints reportedly mean United cannot afford to sell Onana for anything less than their set price.

Andre Onana has reportedly been “stunned” by a wage cut at Manchester United this season, a result of the team missing out on Champions League qualification. Even with his recent struggles, United are said to be unable to let go of the Cameroonian goalkeeper for less than £26 million, due to financial and accounting limitations.

The 29-year-old has come under heavy scrutiny for his form, with criticism intensifying after two major errors led to goals in United’s 2-2 draw against Lyon in the Europa League quarter-finals. That match saw him dropped from the squad for the 4-1 loss to Newcastle, as manager Ruben Amorim stated that Onana needed time to “mentally regroup.”

Onana arrived at United from Inter Milan in the summer of 2023 for £43.8 million, signing a five-year deal. The club amortized the transfer fee over the duration of his contract, putting his current book value at about £26 million. Selling for less than that would mean an accounting loss, something the club is trying to avoid amidst financial concerns.

Reports indicate that Onana expressed his disappointment about the wage cut to the club’s former sporting director, Dan Ashworth, making it clear he hadn’t expected such a decrease in earnings. Meanwhile, Amorim defended his decision to leave the goalkeeper out, highlighting the need to consider a player’s mental wellbeing, especially after repeated high-profile errors.

Since the 2023-24 campaign began, Onana has reportedly committed more errors that led directly to goals than any other Premier League keeper—nine in total. Yet, it appears unlikely that United will find a buyer willing to pay the required amount, raising the possibility of either a loan move or him remaining as a secondary choice.

Backup goalkeeper Altay Bayındır also failed to seize his opportunity during the Newcastle match, making a costly mistake and raising further doubts about United’s goalkeeping options. Analysts, including Roy Keane, criticized Bayındır’s risky decisions, while rumors continue about the club targeting possible replacements like Aaron Ramsdale.

Off the pitch, Onana has also been involved in public confrontations, including a recent dispute with ex-teammate Nemanja Matic, who called him one of United’s “worst keepers.” Onana responded by citing his trophy record with the club, though his on-field performances have continued to come under fire.

With the second leg against Lyon approaching, attention will be focused on whether Onana can reclaim his spot and shift the narrative around his season.