Manchester United are reportedly hopeful of having Andre Onana in the starting XI for their clash against Tottenham.
The goalkeeper has been named in Cameroon’s squad for the Africa Cup of Nations, which kicks off on January 13.
Premier League clubs with selected players for the tournament were obliged to release them on Monday to join their countries – with West Ham blocked from fielding Mohammed Kudus against Brighton on Tuesday night.
However, Onana is set to be available for United’s FA Cup tie against Wigan on Monday, and the Daily Mail report they want him for longer.
Erik ten Hag’s side are said to be in talks with Cameroon about having Onana for their Premier League home match against Spurs.
This is scheduled to be played on January 14, a day before Cameroon’s first AFCON match against Guinea.
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After the Spurs match, Onana faces a seven-hour flight to the Ivory Coast to join his international teammates for the tournament.
If Cameroon are knocked out of the group stages, the 27-year-old could return for United in the FA Cup fourth round if they beat Wigan.
This would mean he would’ve been absent for zero of his club’s games, with the Premier League winter break also coming into effect.
However, Onana could miss up to four matches if Cameroon were to reach the AFCON final, which is being played on February 11.
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Since signing from Inter Milan in the summer, Onana has come under a lot of criticism for his efforts in the United net.
He has conceded 45 goals in 28 appearances across all competitions and has played in every single game this season.
Despite his shaky moments, Onana remains as the first-choice for Ten Hag in between the sticks.
Altay Bayindir looks set to replace him in goal during AFCON, with the 25-year-old yet to make his debut since signing in the summer.
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