Manchester United continue to dominate the transfer headlines as boss Ruben Amorim works to revamp his squad before the September 1 deadline. From goalkeeping signings to marquee exit departures, the Red Devils are moving at pace in the transfer market. Below is a summary of the latest headlines for Friday, 22 August 2025.
United Close In on Senne Lammens
Manchester United are on the brink of signing €20 million (£17m) Royal Antwerp goalkeeper Senne Lammens, 23. The Guardian says that the Belgian stopper has agreed personal terms and will battle André Onana and Altay Bayındır for the No. 1 shirt.
The move is Amorim's motivation to introduce stability and competition in a key role, especially in the wake of uncertainty over Onana's recent form. More on talks can be found on TalkSport.
Amorim: Transfers Won't Wait for Departures
Manager Ruben Amorim has reaffirmed that United won't wait for exits to make signings. Speaking ahead of the weekend, Amorim emphasized that signings will continue to arrive regardless of departures (Reuters).
This is while several players, such as Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, Antony, Tyrell Malacia, and Rasmus Højlund, remain uncertain about their Old Trafford futures.
The "Bomb Squad" Could Be Reintegrated
United's supposed "bomb squad"—players left out of Amorim's plans—can still chip in if transfers fail to arrive prior to the window closing. Their rumored comeback to the first-team fold are Garnacho, Sancho, Antony, and Malacia, who would offer essential cover for the lengthy season ahead (The Sun).
Rasmus Højlund's Future in Doubt
One of the biggest headlines is for Rasmus Højlund. The Danish forward has been omitted from recent squads and is being touted to clubs in Europe. Napoli have been strong admirers, with talks in a loan move with obligation to buy for €40–45 million.
Concurrently, Bayern Munich have also been rumored, though talks have not yet progressed. Højlund reportedly wants to secure a loan agreement with a guarantee of a permanent transfer (Football365).
Antony Seeks Return to Real Betis
Brazilian winger Antony is clamoring to return to Real Betis, where he enjoyed a successful loan period. Betis manager Manuel Pellegrini has urged United to make a determination regarding Antony's future soon. But United are said to be waiting for a huge price, with indications they tagged him at €45 million (Sports Illustrated).
New Midfield Links: Adam Wharton on the Radar
United have also been linked with Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace as a possible signing in the midfield. While characterized as a "dream target," no concrete negotiations have been established yet, so this is a more speculative link at present (3 Added Minutes).
Summary of Today's Manchester United Transfer News
- Senne Lammens deal: Near completion, €20m value.
- Amorim's stance: Signings will keep going regardless of departures.
- Bomb squad return: Antony, Malacia, Sancho, and Garnacho could return if not sold.
- Højlund departure: Napoli and Bayern chase, Napoli being the most aggressive club.
- Antony future: Wants Betis move, but salary has been hard to agree.
- Midfield gossip: Adam Wharton rumoured informally as an option for the long-term.
Final Word
With less than a week left in the transfer window, Manchester United is moving quickly. Ruben Amorim's attacking style of play foretells a need to speedily reform the team, even if it means making tough choices with players like Højlund and Antony. Fan can expect more twists and developments as the deadline approaches.