Man Utd’s De Gea stance revealed amid Onana talks

Tom Hancock

• 30 Jun 2023 14:46 BST
• 3 min read

Manchester United still appear keen to extend David de Gea’s stay at Old Trafford, with the goalkeeper set to become a free agent today (June 30).

Despite the veteran Spaniard’s deficiencies being laid painfully bare again last season – during which he made some calamitously costly mistakes – he does seem to have a future in Erik ten Hag’s plans.

But, as yet, no contract extension for De Gea has been forthcoming – with Man Utd reportedly tabling a concrete bid for Inter Milan’s Andre Onana as a possible replacement between the sticks.

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According to talkSPORT, United are continuing discussions with De Gea with regards to a new contract – as the 32-year-old attracts interest from the Saudi Pro League.

The former Atletico Madrid youngster – who joined Man Utd way back in 2011 and will be the club’s longest-serving player if he stays – is said to have previously initially agreed fresh terms with a significant pay-cut, only for the deal never to be rubber-stamped.

Onana is thought to be interested in a move to Old Trafford, having helped Inter to last season’s Champions League final – but the Cameroonian custodian, 27, could cost at least €50m (£43m), which would take United’s summer spending over €100m (£85.9m), assuming their €55m (£47.2m) deal for Mason Mount doesn’t hit any last-minute snags.

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A knock-on effect

De Gea’s unresolved contract situation is currently complicating the future of another current Man Utd ‘keeper, Tom Heaton.

For the time being, the ex-England international has been blocked from moving to Premier League new boys Luton Town.

Unless De Gea suddenly signs a new contract today, Heaton, 37, will – at least in the short term – be left as United's sole senior shot-stopper.