Rooney urges United to fix goalkeeper problem

Wayne Rooney calls for two signings before the transfer deadline to resolve what he calls a crazy goalkeeper situation.

Rooney urges United to fix goalkeeper problem with bold transfer

Wayne Rooney has urged Manchester United to act before the transfer window closes, saying a glaring goalkeeper problem must be fixed with urgency. Speaking on his BBC podcast after United lost 1-0 to Arsenal, he highlighted Altay Bayindir's costly error and noted that Andre Onana was left out for tactical reasons, according to Ruben Amorim. Rooney argued defenders need the confidence that comes with a trusted keeper and suggested Donnarumma as a prime target, stressing that it would be crazy not to pursue him.

Rooney also signaled the need for a midfield reinforcement alongside a new goalkeeper, naming possible targets such as Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton. He cautioned that salary demands could complicate a deal for Donnarumma, but maintained United should at least explore the option while keeping options open if a move proves unlikely. The broader message is clear: act now to restore balance and confidence across the backline and midfield before the window shuts.

The call for a top class goalkeeper alongside a midfielder signals a broader shift in United’s transfer strategy. It shows Rooney believes the club must match financial muscle with on pitch stability, especially in defense where a single standout presence can change the entire unit’s dynamics. If Amorim chooses to push for Donnarumma despite salary hurdles, United risks weighing ambition against fiscal reality. The situation also tests Andre Onana’s standing in the squad and the club’s willingness to back him with another elite keeper.

Beyond the goalkeeper issue, the midfield push reflects a longer term plan to rebuild balance in the spine of the team. The club will need clear signals to players and fans that it is serious about competing at the highest level this season, even if that means paying strategic sums now for potential gains later. The window could either cement a new foundation or expose gaps that last beyond a single transfer window.

Highlights

The transfer window will reveal if United can translate ambition into action