As the summer transfer window looms, the future of veteran goalkeeper David De Gea at Manchester United is shrouded in uncertainty. After a dozen fruitful years with the Red Devils, the 32-year-old Spanish shot-stopper seems poised to part ways with the club.
De Gea's current contract with Manchester United is nearing its expiration, with only two weeks remaining. While there are ongoing discussions about a potential new contract, the terms of the agreement are not finalized, and De Gea remains unsigned. His absence from the club's recently released retained list adds further fuel to the rumors of his imminent exit.
The club had an option to extend De Gea's contract by a year but chose not to trigger it, suggesting a move towards a younger, more economical alternative. Manchester United's decision appears to hinge on De Gea's substantial weekly wages of £375,000, which they were hoping to reduce.
Uncertainty also stems from head coach Erik ten Hag's recent statements. Although expressing a desire to retain De Gea, ten Hag has refrained from guaranteeing the veteran his number one spot next season, sparking speculation about De Gea's future at Old Trafford.
Meanwhile, Manchester United's search for a successor to De Gea is underway. They have shown interest in Anderlecht's promising 20-year-old goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen, although he seems likely to move to Brighton. Other potential candidates include Inter Milan's Andre Onana and Porto's Diogo Costa, further indicating that the club is preparing for life after De Gea.
In the backdrop of this situation, the club has extended the contracts of backup goalkeepers Tom Heaton and Nathan Bishop by a year, suggesting a move to ensure stability within the department amidst the ongoing reshuffle.
All these factors point to a likely departure of David De Gea from Manchester United, marking the end of an era at Old Trafford. His departure, however, remains unconfirmed, leaving fans and observers alike waiting with bated breath for the final decision.
