Liverpool hold key to Man Utd replacing David de Gea

Suraj Radia

• 8 May 2023 16:05 BST
• 2 min read

David de Gea’s future at Manchester United was once again called into question this week after another poor error, however any plans Erik ten Hag has to replace his goalkeeper this summer could rely on the decisions of rivals Liverpool.

De Gea failed to stop a seemingly tame effort from Said Benrahma, leading to a 1-0 defeat against West Ham that leaves United’s hopes of qualifying for next season’s Champions League in severe danger.

Ten Hag’s men are just one point ahead of Liverpool, albeit with a game in hand, and Jurgen Klopp’s side could prove decisive both on and off the pitch for United, with a potential goalkeeper merry-go-round on the cards this summer.

DEMANDS: Ten Hag's De Gea comments send strong message

De Gea is out of contract this summer and Ten Hag publically defended the Spaniard after his error, insisting the club wanted to extend his deal, although reports suggest the 32-year-old will have to take a substantial pay cut to remain at Old Trafford.

United are believed to be lining up a move for David Raya, who is entering the final year of his contract with Brentford, however the Bees are targeting Liverpool’s backup keeper Caoimhin Kelleher as a replacement.

As a result, Man Utd’s pursuit of Raya could come down to Liverpool’s willingness to sell Kelleher or source a replacement, a decision they may not take lightly knowing the implications it could have on strengthening a rival.

Why Man Utd may look to keep hold of De Gea despite declining form

De Gea is currently United’s highest earner on a staggering £375,000 per week and, while the club have an option to extend his current deal for a further year, the veteran’s unconvincing form has seen the Red Devils only offer significantly reduced terms.

Despite reservations from some at the club, Ten Hag would prefer to keep De Gea and United are thought to be offering him a multi-year deal at £200,000 a week.

The club are still scouting potential replacements such as Raya, Porto’s Diogo Costa and Unai Simon of Athletic Bilbao however United’s priority is to sign a striker and a midfielder this summer, meaning the remaining resources for a keeper could be limited.

OPTIONS: Man Utd's potential De Gea replacement targets

Consequently, De Gea could remain as Ten Hag’s first choice keeper for another season while the club address more pressing squad issues, with Raya set to become a free agent next summer, or cheaper alternatives such as Dinamo Zagreb’s Dominik Livakovic, could be considered.