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Manchester United’s summer transfer window concluded with both success and disappointment, wrapping up their business by securing Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp for £21.7m. The 23-year-old signed a five-year contract until 2030, bringing valuable experience with 64 appearances for Antwerp and helping them win the 2023 Belgian Super Cup.
“I am extremely proud to be joining Manchester United, it is a real dream come true,” Lammens expressed about his move to Old Trafford.
Midfield Target Slips Away
However, United’s transfer window wasn’t without its frustrations. Despite strengthening their attack earlier in the summer with the signings of Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford and Matheus Cunha from Wolves, Ruben Amorim’s side failed to land their primary midfield target on deadline day. The club had been pursuing Brighton’s Carlos Baleba earlier in the window before reportedly setting their sights on Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller, though the 24-year-old German international opted to remain in the Bundesliga to secure regular playing time ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Notable Departures Balance the Books
United’s summer spending was partially offset by some notable departures. Rasmus Hojlund joined Napoli in a deal worth £38m, reuniting with former United midfielder Scott McTominay, while Alejandro Garnacho finally got his desired move to Chelsea for £40m after pushing for a transfer throughout the summer.
The Great Coffee Shop Mystery
Meanwhile, in Spain’s Segunda Division, Burgos experienced one of the most bizarre transfer collapses in recent memory. The club appeared to have secured the signature of Mexican goalkeeping legend Guillermo Ochoa, complete with medical examinations and contract negotiations nearly finalized. However, the 40-year-old’s career took another unexpected turn when he stepped out for coffee during final discussions, citing a need to change one contract detail, and simply never returned.
Ochoa, who boasts five World Cup appearances and six CONCACAF Gold Cup victories with Mexico, left Burgos officials mystified as he refused to answer his phone calls. The club was forced to scramble for alternatives, eventually signing Jesus Ruiz from Racing de Ferrol with just an hour remaining in the transfer window.
A Legend’s Lasting Legacy
The incident adds another colorful story to Ochoa’s already remarkable career, which has seen him play across five different countries. With 151 international caps and 3.1 million Instagram followers, the goalkeeper would have brought significant attention to Burgos. Instead, he remains a free agent, though any future suitors might be wise to avoid scheduling contract meetings near coffee shops.
