Former Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar previously waxed lyrical about Inter Milan shot-stopper Andre Onana.
Though uncertainty continues to surround David de Gea's future at Old Trafford, United have identified Onana as a possible replacement for the Spaniard. De Gea, who got married over the weekend, is now officially a free agent after his contract at United concluded on Friday, but the Reds are still set to hold talks with him to see if a resolution can be reached.
But in the event of both parties agreeing to go their separate ways, United will have to recruit a new first-choice goalkeeper for the first time in more than a decade. Onana has been pinpointed as an ideal candidate by United manager Erik ten Hag, who worked with the Cameroonian at Ajax.
Onana, 27, spent six years at the Johan Cruyff Arena and excelled under the Dutchman's stewardship, racking up almost 150 appearances. He was key to Ten Hag's style of play, not least for his expertise in possession.
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His performances during his time in Amsterdam alerted some of Europe's biggest clubs to his capabilities, including Spanish giants Barcelona. He was linked with a move to Spain ahead of the 2019 January transfer window, forcing outgoing Ajax chief executive Van der Sar to shut down the prospect of him moving to Catalonia.
The legendary Dutchman also used the opportunity to hail Onana's abilities, including his speed and reaction times. He has since grown as a goalkeeper and got better and better, just as most 'keepers do with the more experience they secure.
"He came to Ajax aged 18 or 19 and the way he developed and the natural attributes that he already had, his speed, his reaction and I think he set himself as a great goalkeeper," said Van der Sar, speaking back in November 2018.
"He was in a rush to play first-team football quickly, but I think the level that he composed himself and that first year, playing straight away the Europa League final was a great start.
"Last year was a difficult season but this year again he has proven to be extremely valuable for the team, and besides that, he is a great guy."
Onana left Ajax last summer and joined Inter Milan on a free transfer. He enjoyed an excellent debut season in Italy, helping Inter win two trophies and reach the Champions League final. He also racked up 19 clean sheets in 41 matches.
Despite being on the losing side, he produced an excellent performance in the Champions League final defeat to Manchester City in Istanbul last month, prompting widespread praise and applause. He was also lauded by Pep Guardiola for his ball-playing expertise, both before and after the match.
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