André Onana is about to return from his doping-related suspension, but he is unlikely to reprise his starting role at Ajax. The ban ends of November 4th. The CAS allows players to resume training two months in advance in these instances. On the other hand, the Dutch club is ready to move on from him since he is on an expiring contract. Inter have taken a strong interest in adding him as a free agent in 2022.
Ajax director Marc Overmars told NOS: “We have decided that André will initially work with the youth team. The question for us is whether he has a place in the squad long-term. We signed two goalkeepers during his disqualification. One has more experience, and the other is a talented prospect. The team has already started playing and is under construction.”
According to Calciomercato.com, Inter are preparing a strong offer in January, when Onana will be able to sign for a new team. Olympique Lyonnais tried to acquire him in the recent window but to no avail. He is unlikely to agree to an extension with Ajax in the next two or three months.
Samir Handanovic is entering the final year of his contract. On top of Onana, Inter also have an in-house option that might take over from him between the sticks. Differently from Antonio Conte, Simone Inzaghi does not consider the captain untouchable. In case of further slip-ups, Andrei Radu could be promoted and get a shot to earn the starting job for the future.