David de Gea’s expiring contract has put his future at Manchester United in jeopardy. But he makes no secret of his desire to stay at Old Trafford.
De Gea clear about future at Manchester United
De Gea’s future has been the subject of talk in English media for months. On Wednesday, The Athletic reported that the 32-year-old keeper has ignored United’s first contract proposal, but talks are still ongoing. Manager Erik ten Hag’s club wants to continue with the Madrilene for longer. But only if he is willing to agree to a salary reduction. De Gea is currently one of the highest paid players in the Premier League.
United does not want to use the option to extend De Gea’s current contract by a year
According to English media, it is the reason that United does not want to use the option. To extend De Gea’s current contract by a year. However, that doesn’t mean a departure is in the works. The ex-Atletico Madrid player has stressed in conversation with Sky Sports: “Of course I’ve been playing here for years. I enjoy every moment at this club and play a lot of games. So of course it’s great to play here. I like this huge club, I’m very happy here.”
De Gea takes notice that his future is making a lot of noise in the English media. “It has been the case for years that there are many rumors at this club, but we as players just focus on the games. Especially next Sunday, that is a very important game for us because we want to finish in the top four,” he refers to the game against Newcastle United. “We still have a lot of games to play, which is more important than my contract at the moment.”
De Gea has been playing at United since 2011, which took him over from Atlético for 25 million euros at the time. As the successor to Edwin van der Sar, the 45-time international of Spain became the first choice under the crossbar, although his game has been regularly criticized over the years. Ten Hag appreciates De Gea’s unmistakable qualities as a linekeeper, but acknowledged that the playing skills of his first keeper could be improved.
