Manchester United have completed the signing of 23-year-old goalkeeper Senne Lammens for £18.1m as part of their long-term Project 150 vision, which aims for Premier League glory by 2028, the 150th anniversary of the club.
Project 150 and United’s Transfer Strategy
The plan was first outlined in September 2024 by chief executive Omar Berrada and reinforced in June this year. Berrada stated: “Why not aim for it?” The club’s hierarchy believe signing young talent like Lammens is crucial to achieving that ambitious milestone.
United considered Aston Villa’s World Cup winner Emiliano Martinez but eventually decided on Lammens. Martinez committed more errors leading to shots (6) than Andre Onana (4) last season. As Ruben Amorim admitted: “It is hard to be a Manchester United goalkeeper in this moment.”
Why Manchester United Chose Senne Lammens
Lammens, standing at 6ft 4in, has 93 senior appearances, with 52 in the Belgian Pro League. Belgium’s senior squad also called him up.
United’s revamped data analysis team highlighted his outstanding metrics in shot stopping, claimed crosses, rebound prevention, and passing. He recorded more saves than any goalkeeper in Europe’s top 10 leagues last season and the most progressive passes among keepers under 23.
Director of football Jason Wilcox confirmed: “Lammens was the subject of significant interest from a number of clubs.”
Belgian legends Thibaut Courtois and Simon Mignolet have both endorsed him. Antwerp reporter Axel Brisart added: “He made some great saves and has great reflexes on the line. He is very proactive and likes to come for the ball. He has great feet and his passing is a really big weapon for any team looking to put some tempo into their play.”
The Long-Term Plan
By 2028, when United’s Project 150 reaches its target, Lammens will be 26 and entering his peak years, while Martinez will be 35. Despite the risks attached to his lack of experience, United see Lammens as a cornerstone for their future.
Their next Premier League clash is against Manchester City on 14 September. The big question now is whether Amorim will hand Lammens his debut in such a high-stakes derby.
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