Onana is a key part of Ten Hag's grand plan for United

UNITED are edging closer to completing the signing of Inter Milan goalkeeper Andre Onana.

- GEORGE SMITH

The Reds have held a series of positive discussions with the Italian club and are confident of landing the Cameroonian shot-stopper.

He has been earmarked as the club's primary target to replace David de Gea between the sticks and they are keen to get a deal over the line as soon as possible.

Onana worked with Erik ten Hag at Ajax and is understood to be keen on reuniting with him at Old Trafford. He played almost 150 games under the Dutch boss, becoming one of the best ballplaying goalkeepers in the business.

Though he can leave his team-with their mates and supporters hearts in their mouths, often taking one or two risks, he is an outstanding distributor. That was obvious throughout Inter's run to the Champions League final.

On paper, in direct relation to the way Ten Hag wants to take United forward and develop their style of play, he would be an instant upgrade on De Gea, who confirmed his exit from Old Trafford last week.

As good as the Spaniard's shots-topping capabilities were, he was unable to master the art of playing the ball out from the back.