United tipped to unleash Championship sensation next season, putting £18m star’s spot under massive threat – report

Last summer, one of Manchester United’s biggest priorities was solving their goalkeeping struggles. They desperately needed reliable cover for Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir, who had both proved unconvincing.

Fortunately, on the summer 2026 deadline day, the Red Devils secured Royal Antwerp’s Senne Lammens. What a revelation he has been; the stats don’t lie: the Belgian shot-stopper has significantly strengthened United.

In his 20 league appearances so far, United have lost only twice. Time and again, he has kept them in games with sharp saves, commanding presence, and assured shot-stopping.

While “Baby Courtois” is living up to the hype, many still feel United’s goalkeeping department is not yet where it needs to be.

At present, Lammens has no dependable backup

The backup options:

Bayindir had a chance to revive his fortunes at Old Trafford, but across six consecutive starts early in the season, he remained unconvincing. The Turkish keeper is now heavily linked with a return to the Super Lig.

Tom Heaton, the third-choice goalkeeper, turns 40 in April and is expected to retire in the summer. Meanwhile, Onana, currently on loan at Trabzonspor, is expected to be sold permanently.

This leaves Lammens potentially without a capable deputy next season.

Keeper situation must be addressed

INEOS may be forced to spend again on another shot-stopper. Yet, as Manchester World’s Rich Fay argues, they might already have the answer in Radek Vitek.

Fay notes: “Man United might need someone who can seriously challenge Lammens for the starting role, but who will also be content with a back-up position. They might already have the perfect fit.

“Vitek is performing consistently at a high level and has shown he would be more than capable as Lammens’ deputy next season.”

Vitek ready to challenge Lammens

Radek Vitek has been a revelation at Bristol City. Initially signed as short-term cover for Max O’Leary, he impressed so much that he displaced the highly rated Robins’ number one.

His brilliance forced O’Leary out in January, with the 29-year-old moving to West Brom for game time.

Like Lammens, Vitek has enjoyed a breakthrough season. Nine clean sheets in 26 games is impressive, but with the 22-year-old, it is not just about the numbers.

Those who watch him regularly insist you need to see him in action to appreciate his quality. His shot-stopping is top-notch, producing outrageous saves week after week.

Lammens versus Vitek 2025-26 stats (as per Flashscore)

Returning to United this summer, he looks well-equipped to challenge Lammens. As highlighted (in the table above), the gap in quality between them is not wide; both are enjoying outstanding 2025–26 campaigns.

Feature image Ed Sykes via Getty Images

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