Senne Lammens: Belgian prodigy set to transform Man United’s goalkeeping future

Sports Top Stories
Okezie Omorogie
August 23, 2025
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Belgian Goalkeeper, Senne Lamens with a reported move to Manchester United. Photo Credit- SkySports/X

As the summer transfer window of 2025 nears its climax, Manchester United’s pursuit of Royal Antwerp’s 23-year-old goalkeeper Senne Lammens has sent ripples through the footballing world. With reports from outlets like Sky Sports and United in Focus indicating that a £17.3m deal is “almost done,” Lammens is on the brink of a dream move to Old Trafford. Hailed as the “new Thibaut Courtois” by former Anderlecht goalkeeping coach Frank Boeckx, Lammens brings a blend of raw talent, modern goalkeeping attributes, and a hunger to prove himself in the Premier League. This piece is set to explore Lammens’ journey, his playing style, his statistical profile, and what Manchester United fans can expect if he dons the Red Devils’ gloves.

The rise of Senne Lammens

Born in Zottegem, Belgium, on July 7, 2002, Senne Lammens’ journey to the brink of Premier League stardom began in the youth ranks of KRC Bambrugge and Dender before he joined Club Brugge’s academy. At 17, he made headlines by scoring a last-minute equalizer for Brugge’s U19s against Real Madrid in the UEFA Youth League, showcasing his flair for the dramatic. His senior debut came in 2021, stepping in for the injured Simon Mignolet in a 3-2 Belgian Super Cup win over Genk. However, with Mignolet’s return, opportunities were scarce, and Lammens moved to Royal Antwerp on a free transfer in 2023.

At Antwerp, Lammens found his footing, becoming the first-choice goalkeeper and making 61 appearances by August 2025. His 2024/25 season was a breakout campaign, with 40 appearances, 10 clean sheets, and an 84% save percentage in the Belgian Pro League. His performances earned him a first call-up to the Belgian national team in March 2025, signaling his readiness for a bigger stage. Now, with Manchester United’s goalkeeping department under scrutiny, Andre Onana’s inconsistency and Altay Bayindir’s struggles against Arsenal in the 2025/26 opener, Lammens is set to be the long-term solution manager Ruben Amorim craves.

Goalkeeping style of Lammens

Standing at 6ft 4in, Lammens combines physical presence with the technical skills demanded by modern football. His playing style aligns perfectly with Amorim’s vision of a goalkeeper who is both a shot-stopper and a playmaker. Here’s a breakdown of his key attributes:

Lammens is renowned for his reflexes and composure in one-on-one situations. His 84% save percentage in the 2024/25 Belgian Pro League places him among the league’s elite, and he’s saved one penalty in four appearances this season. Former coach Boeckx praised his “excellent shot-stopping and positioning,” likening him to Courtois for his ability to dominate his box.

In an era where goalkeepers are expected to initiate attacks, Lammens excels. His distribution both short and long, with either foot, is “impressive,” according to Boeckx. In 2024/25, he averaged 32.7 passes per game with an 82% completion rate, including 7.1 long balls at 65% accuracy, according to SofaScore data. This makes him a natural fit for Amorim’s build-from-the-back system, unlike Bayindir, who struggled with aerial challenges in United’s 1-0 loss to Arsenal.

Lammens has earned a reputation as a penalty-saving expert, with a notable stop in the 2024/25 season. His height and quick reflexes make him a daunting presence during shootouts, a trait United fans will hope translates to high-pressure Premier League moments. At 1.93m, Lammens commands his area with authority, a stark contrast to Bayindir’s criticized weakness on crosses. His ability to claim high balls and organize his defense could address United’s vulnerability at set pieces, which cost them against Arsenal.

Lammens’ calm demeanor in high-stakes situations, as seen in his Champions League playoff appearances for Antwerp, suggests he can handle the intense scrutiny of Old Trafford. His public comments about the United interest, “It’s special… my profile suits English football,” reflect a confidence that belies his 23 years.

Lammens’ statistics and records

Lammens’ numbers currently tell the story of a goalkeeper ready to step up. Here’s a detailed look at his 2024/25 season with Royal Antwerp (as of August 2025): 40 appearances in the Belgian Pro League, 4 in 2025/26 season. 10 clean sheets in 2024/25, 1 in 2025/26. 84% save percentage, ranking him in the top 5% of Pro League goalkeepers. 48 goals conceded in 40 matches (1.2 per game), 4 in 4 matches in 2025/26. 32.7 passes per game, with 82% completion. 1 penalty saves in 2024/25, 1 in 2025/26.

His notable achievements include: Belgian Super Cup winner (2021, Club Brugge), first Belgium senior call-up (March 2025). While the Belgian Pro League is less competitive than the Premier League, Lammens’ stats suggest he can handle top-flight demands. His save percentage surpasses Onana’s 74% in the 2024/25 Premier League, and his clean sheet ratio (25%) is competitive with top European keepers.

Why Manchester United?

Manchester United’s interest in Lammens stems from a turbulent goalkeeping situation. Andre Onana, signed in 2023, has been inconsistent, with high-profile errors last season and a hamstring injury in pre-season 2025 raising concerns. Altay Bayindir, who started the 2025/26 opener against Arsenal, was criticized for his role in Ricardo Calafiori’s goal, prompting reports that he’s “actively” seeking a new club. Rúben Amorim, backed by INEOS’ data-driven recruitment, sees Lammens as a cost-effective, high-potential option at £17.3m, especially compared to pricier targets like Gianluigi Donnarumma or Emiliano Martinez.

The transfer is not without competition. Leeds United see him as a potential No. 1. However, Lammens’ preference for United, coupled with advanced talks reported by Fabrizio Romano, gives the Red Devils the edge. Antwerp’s signing of Taishi Brandon Nozawa as Lammens’ replacement further signals their willingness to cash in for €20m.

What fans can expect from Lammens

If Lammens completes his move to Manchester United, fans can anticipate a goalkeeper who brings stability, modernity, and long-term potential. Here’s what to expect: Lammens isn’t coming to sit on the bench. Reports indicate he’s been told he’ll challenge Onana for the No. 1 spot, potentially spurring the Cameroonian to improve or paving the way for Lammens to take over. His hunger and humility as seen in his grounded comments about the transfer, suggest he’ll embrace the challenge.

Moreover, United’s struggles against Arsenal’s goal from a corner exposed Bayindir’s aerial weaknesses. Lammens’ 6ft 4in frame and command of his box could shore up United’s set-piece defense, a critical area given their 14 goals conceded from dead balls in 2024/25. Again at 23, Lammens is a project for the next decade, not a stopgap. His development under Amorim’s guidance, potentially alongside goalkeeping coach Jelle ten Rouwelaar, could see him emulate Courtois’ trajectory. Fans should expect gradual integration, possibly starting in cup competitions or during Onana’s absence at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Lammens’ excitement about joining “one of the best clubs in the world” and his belief that his style suits English football will endear him to United supporters. His flair for dramatic moments, like his U19 goal, hints at a personality that could thrive in Old Trafford’s spotlight.

Lammens’ transition won’t be a walk in the park. The Premier League’s intensity is a step up from the Belgian Pro League, and adapting to its physicality and pace will test his reflexes and decision-making. Onana’s established status means Lammens may need to bide his time, and fan pressure could be intense if early performances falter. Moreover, United’s crowded goalkeeping roster, potentially four keepers if Bayindir stays, could complicate his integration.

Conclusion

Senne Lammens stands on the brink of a career-defining move to Manchester United, bringing a skill set tailored for the modern game and a statistical profile that promises reliability. His shot-stopping, distribution, and aerial dominance make him a perfect fit for Ruben Amorim’s system, while his youth and ambition signal a bright future. For United fans, weary of goalkeeping woes, Lammens represents hope, a chance to finally solve a problem position. As the transfer edges closer, the Old Trafford faithful can dream of a Belgian prodigy who might just become their next great guardian between the posts.