Michael Owen Urges Manchester United to Make Move for Gianluigi Donnarumma

Ruben Amorim has made a strong start to life at Manchester United, using his first summer transfer window to add firepower to the squad. The arrivals of Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko have bolstered United’s attack and given fans hope that this season could be different.

But while the focus has been on scoring goals, questions remain about United’s defense and goalkeeping situation. And for Michael Owen, the answer might be simple: sign Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Donnarumma’s Situation at PSG

Donnarumma, 26, has entered the final year of his contract with Paris Saint-Germain. Despite winning multiple Ligue 1 titles, five domestic cups, and a Champions League, his time in Paris seems to be coming to an end. PSG recently brought in Lucas Chevalier, and the Italian star has been told he is free to find a new club.

With PSG reportedly valuing him at just £40 million, Donnarumma suddenly looks like one of the bargains of the summer. For Owen, it’s a no-brainer.

“When it all came out about Donnarumma leaving Paris Saint-Germain, I thought, ‘Oh my word, whoever gets him are going to be a lucky team,’” Owen said. “He’s unbelievable, one of the best in the world. United should be all over this.”

United’s Goalkeeper Woes

Right now, United are struggling in goal. Andre Onana, signed from Inter Milan for £47.2m two years ago, has failed to convince fans and pundits alike. His mistakes last season contributed to United’s 15th-place Premier League finish, their worst in decades.

Onana is currently recovering from injury, forcing Altay Bayindir into the starting role. While Bayindir has shown glimpses of quality, there are concerns about whether he is the right man for the job long-term.

This is why Donnarumma could be the perfect signing. At 26, he is entering his prime years as a goalkeeper. His commanding presence, world-class shot-stopping, and big-game experience would immediately lift United’s defense.

Competition From Manchester City

But United won’t have it easy. Local rivals Manchester City are also in the mix. With Ederson linked with a shock move to Galatasaray, City may be forced into the market for a new No.1. They recently signed James Trafford from Burnley, but Pep Guardiola may feel the 21-year-old isn’t ready to step up just yet.

Reports suggest City have already opened talks with PSG about Donnarumma, but their reluctance to meet the French club’s asking price could leave the door open for United to swoop in.

If Amorim can convince Donnarumma to choose Old Trafford over the Etihad, it would be a huge statement signing for his project.

Owen: United Need More Than Just a Striker

Owen also warned that United cannot rely solely on their new attacking signings. “If United want to challenge for the league again, they need to strengthen in more areas,” he said. “They’ve got ageing players in midfield and plenty of defenders, but not many truly great ones.”

He added: “Just to get back into the European places, they might have enough. But if they’re serious about becoming a top side again, they’ll need to make smart signings over the next couple of years. For now, the goalkeeper position looks the most obvious one to improve.”