MU parts ways with six stars to raise funds for a new goalkeeper’s salary.

Manchester United is heading into a season full of obstacles, and their loss to Arsenal in the Premier League opener revealed longstanding issues between the posts.

Goalkeeper Altay Bayindir’s mistake allowed Riccardo Calafiori to net the decisive goal, leaving United ruing their missed chances despite controlling the match. This game has once again underscored the pressing need for an elite goalkeeper, and Gianluigi Donnarumma’s name is now in the spotlight.

Sources indicate that Donnarumma, who has been left out of PSG’s plans by manager Luis Enrique, is valued at around £40 million. However, he is demanding a weekly salary of £315,000—over 50% higher than his current £210,000 per week. This hefty sum means United may have to offload several players to keep their wage bill in check. The six “underperformers” earmarked for sale are Antony, Jadon Sancho, Alejandro Garnacho, Tyrell Malacia, Rasmus Hojlund, and Andre Onana. Together, their wages amount to £685,000 per week, and moving them on could easily allow United to meet Donnarumma’s demands and still have funds left for other positions.

At 26, Donnarumma played a pivotal role in PSG’s Champions League victory last season and was outstanding in both semi-final legs against Arsenal. He also left a lasting impression on English fans with his penalty saves in the Euro 2020 final. Although United has denied rumors of interest in the Italian keeper, David Raya’s standout performance for Arsenal in the recent match is a clear reminder that a top goalkeeper can change the course of a game. United’s decision to overlook Donnarumma has left many fans baffled, especially as Manchester City is reportedly eyeing him as well.

To fund a move for Donnarumma, United must quickly find buyers for players no longer in their plans. Marcus Rashford has already departed on loan to Barcelona, but Antony, Sancho, Garnacho, Malacia, Hojlund, and Onana are still searching for new clubs. Inter Milan is reportedly considering bringing Onana back to San Siro, while Chelsea is interested in Garnacho for at least £50 million. Sancho has turned down AS Roma and is awaiting other offers, while Hojlund is being monitored by AC Milan and Newcastle. Antony, following a successful loan at Real Betis, has also drawn attention from Saudi clubs.

Coach Ruben Amorim continues to express satisfaction with the current trio of goalkeepers—Bayindir, Onana, and Tom Heaton—but in reality, United clearly needs an upgrade. After spending £200 million to refresh their attack, selling surplus players would not only help United balance their books but also create opportunities to pursue other targets, such as Sporting Lisbon’s midfielder Morten Hjulmand.