Man Utd identifies 'Emiliano Martinez alternative' to replace Andre Onana

Vishal Bhawani

Man Utd identifies 'Emiliano Martinez alternative' to replace Andre Onana image

Getty Images

Manchester United’s goalkeeping headache might soon have a French twist. After weeks of being linked with World Cup winner Emiliano Martinez, the club now appears to have shifted gears — and eyes — towards Lille’s young shot-stopper Lucas Chevalier.

With Andre Onana’s two seasons turning into a highlight reel of bloopers, United are quietly preparing for change.

Despite backing Onana publicly, the club is said to be exploring options behind the scenes. A move for Martinez had been in play, but that trail has "gone cold".

Atletico Madrid seem to have stolen the Argentine’s heart — and possibly, his signature — with Saudi clubs lurking too, wallet-first.

Why Man United might go for Chevalier?

As per sources (via Football Insider) Lucas Chevalier has emerged as a strong candidate to step into Old Trafford’s goal.

The 23-year-old had a solid 2024–25 season at Lille, racking up 13 clean sheets in 48 matches. He may not have the World Cup medal Martinez boasts, but what he does offer is consistency — something United fans would happily trade for the weekly rollercoaster of errors from Onana.

📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp

Chevalier isn’t just a flash in the pan either. He’s already notched up over 150 senior appearances and has been a reliable figure for Lille since making his debut in 2021.

He’s under contract until 2027, but United wouldn’t need to empty the INEOS’ pockets to get him. A deal around £25.6 million could do the trick.

While Onana wants to stay and prove himself to Ruben Amorim, the board seems keen to prepare for every scenario — especially after finishing a painful 15th in the league and falling short in Europe.

Is Chevalier the man to bring calm to United’s chaos between the posts? Or just another name in a long line of hopefuls?

Time will tell. But if Martinez was plan A, Chevalier might just be the smart, affordable plan B with less drama and fewer TikTok dances.

Manchester United news and related links

Vishal Bhawani

Vishal Bhawani is a sub-editor for the Affiliate Content team and a writer and sub-editor for the Football Wires team at The Sporting News. Based in Indore, India, he holds a Diploma in Operations and Management from Maharashtra University.

Before joining TSN in May 2024, Vishal contributed to Football Express and Six Sports and ran his own blog, Anfield Home, as a passionate Liverpool fan. An avid traveler, he follows multiple sports, including cricket, soccer, and tennis.