Man Utd's Choice: Signing Senne Lammens Over Emiliano Martinez

Manchester United signed goalkeeper Senne Lammens on Monday for £18.1m as part of their 'Project 150' plan to target the Premier League title in 2028, the club's 150th anniversary. Chief executive Omar Berrada first mentioned this plan in September 2024 and reiterated it in June this year.

The decision to sign Lammens was made just before the transfer window closed, with United opting for him over Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa. Lammens, at 23 years old, has limited experience compared to Martinez but was chosen based on data analysis showing his strong performance in key metrics.

Lammens, standing at 6ft 4in, has made 93 appearances, with notable achievements in saves, claimed crosses, shot-stopping, and passing. He was highly recommended by fellow goalkeepers Thibaut Courtois and Simon Mignolet. Despite his lack of experience, United decided to prioritize strengthening their goalkeeping roster over their midfield.

The deal with Lammens was finalized on Monday morning after negotiations between United and Royal Antwerp. While there is a risk involved in signing a relatively inexperienced goalkeeper, Lammens' skills and recommendations make him a promising addition to the team.

Lammens' strengths lie in his shot-stopping abilities, reflex saves, and proactive approach on the field. However, his performance in handling crosses and corners may need refinement to strike a balance between claiming the ball and avoiding scrambles in the box. His passing game, especially under pressure, is an area that may require improvement as he transitions to the Premier League.

United's decision to sign Lammens aligns with their long-term strategy for success and their commitment to 'Project 150'. His arrival adds depth to their goalkeeping options and presents a potential future asset as he develops and matures in the coming years.