Was Andre Onana right to ‘demand’ so much from Harry Maguire?

In recent weeks, the football world has been buzzing with news of Ajax goalkeeper, Andre Onana, reportedly ‘demanding’ a high transfer fee from Manchester United defender, Harry Maguire. This demand has sparked a debate among fans and pundits alike, with some questioning the legitimacy of Onana’s stance. In this article, we will explore the validity of Onana’s demand and analyze the factors that might have influenced his decision.

The Context of Onana’s Demand

To understand Onana’s demand, we need to delve into the circumstances that have led to this situation. First and foremost, it is important to note that Onana is one of the top goalkeepers in European football at the moment. He has been a key player for Ajax, making crucial saves and showcasing exceptional skills on the pitch.

Furthermore, with Manchester United currently seeking a reliable goalkeeper to bolster their squad, Onana’s demand for a high transfer fee is not entirely unreasonable. The Dutch side recognizes the value of their star goalkeeper and is keen to retain him unless a proper compensation is given.

The Market Value of Goalkeepers

In recent years, the transfer market has witnessed skyrocketing fees for goalkeepers. With multi-million pound deals for keepers such as Alisson Becker and Kepa Arrizabalaga, it comes as no surprise that top-tier goalkeepers command a high price in the modern game.

Onana’s demand must be seen in the context of this inflated market. He understands that his skills are in high demand and that Manchester United, being a wealthy club, can afford to pay a significant sum for his services. In this regard, his demand can be seen as a reflection of the current market trends rather than an individual whim.

The Importance of Fair Compensation

When a club seeks to acquire a player, it is crucial to provide fair compensation to the player’s current club. This ensures that the selling club is adequately rewarded for developing and nurturing the player’s skills. In the case of Onana, Ajax has invested time, effort, and resources in developing him into the exceptional goalkeeper he is today.

By demanding a high transfer fee from Harry Maguire, Onana is signaling to Manchester United that Ajax’s investment should be acknowledged and compensated fairly. This is not an unfair demand but rather a reasonable expectation from a player who has thrived under Ajax’s guidance.

The Negotiation Process

Negotiating transfer fees is a common practice in the football industry. Both selling and buying clubs engage in a series of discussions to reach a mutually beneficial agreement. Often, the initial demands from the player and his current club are higher than the eventual transfer fee.

Onana’s demand can be viewed as part of the negotiation process. By setting a high initial asking price, he leaves room for negotiation and potential compromises. It is important to remember that these negotiations involve multiple parties, including agents and representatives, who play a significant role in shaping the outcome.

The Potential Impact on Maguire

While Onana’s demand might seem excessive to some, it is crucial to consider the potential impact on Harry Maguire. As a player, Maguire is undoubtedly interested in joining a prestigious club like Manchester United. However, he also understands the importance of having a reliable goalkeeper behind him.

If Onana were to join the Red Devils with a significantly lower transfer fee, it might raise questions about his quality and commitment. Maguire would prefer to have a world-class goalkeeper like Onana standing between the posts, even if it means paying a higher transfer fee.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Andre Onana’s ‘demand’ for a high transfer fee from Harry Maguire can be seen as justified when considering the context of the market value for goalkeepers, the importance of fair compensation, and the negotiation process. It is essential to understand that transfer negotiations are complex and involve multiple stakeholders. Ultimately, it will be up to the clubs involved to reach a mutually beneficial agreement that satisfies all parties involved.

*Source theathletic.com