Man Utd could land world-class De Gea replacement for FREE

Robin Bairner
Robin Bairner
  • 26 Aug 2022 05:06 CDT
  • 3 min read
David de Gea in action for Manchester United
© ProShots

David de Gea’s merits as Manchester United goalkeeper have been under scrutiny since he arrived at the club from Atletico Madrid in 2011.

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Eleven years on, the debate continues to rage over whether the 31-year-old Spain international is of the quality to start for the club.

This has been particularly thrown into contrast by Dean Henderson’s departure from the club on loan this summer to Nottingham Forest. The England international was outspoken about his treatment at Old Trafford and has started the season well at the newly promoted team.

De Gea, meanwhile, has received a fair share of the blame after United’s sluggish start to the season following a 2-1 loss against Brighton and then a 4-0 thumping at the hands of Brentford.

Now the Red Devils are seeking out a player to perform a back-up role, with Newcastle’s Martin Dubravka discussed.

However, an alternative starter may become available on a free transfer in the days ahead.

Navas to be released by PSG

According to FootMercato, Keylor Navas is in talk with PSG to be released from his present deal.

A three-time Champions League winner with Real Madrid, the Costa Rica international remains one of the best keepers in the world and only finds himself on his way out at Parc des Princes after PSG opportunistically signed Gianluigi Donnarumma on a free transfer last summer.

Keylor Navas is PSG's second choice
© ProShots - Keylor Navas is PSG's second choice

Navas, meanwhile, remains easily good enough to play at one of Europe’s leading clubs and had been in rotation with Donnarumma last season. He is, however, now on the periphery after new PSG boss Christophe Galtier indicated that the Italy star is his No.1. As such, he wants to leave the club.

Navas’ transfer options presently look thin. Europe’s finest sides all boast a strong goalkeeper, and though it would rather sum up Man Utd’s lack of transfer foresight if they were to pounce for him, he could provide a viable alternative to De Gea, even at 35 years old. If he were to become available on a free transfer, Erik ten Hag would have to take a look.

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