How De Gea could be in line for Premier League return

Suraj Radia

4 Dec 2023 05:02 CST
3 min read

David de Gea, Man Utd, 2022/23 — © ProShots

David de Gea is still yet to find a new club nearly six months after leaving Manchester United but the goalkeeper could have an opportunity to make a shock return to the Premier League.

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De Gea left Old Trafford after 12 years at the club following the expiry of his contract but the 33-year-old remains the most high profile player available on a free transfer, having rejected the chance to move to Saudi Arabia during the summer.

It is believed De Gea is holding out for a club in his native Spain or another major European side and his patience over a transfer could be rewarded if Newcastle look to make an emergency signing to replace Nick Pope.

Pope was substituted during Newcastle’s win over Man Utd on the weekend and it is suspected the Magpies’ goalkeeper could be out for up to five months with a dislocated shoulder.

The injury represents a devastating blow for Pope, who has been one of the league’s standout goalkeepers since moving to St James’ Park last summer, as well as Newcastle, who now have a staggering 13 first team players unavailable to Eddie Howe.

Although Newcastle have ample cover for Pope in Martin Dubravka, Loris Karius and Mark Gillespie, the temptation to sign a player of De Gea’s pedigree as a short-term solution could make a transfer possible despite no official confirmation of the injury or subsequent plans yet.

Dubravka set to be trusted to replace Pope by Newcastle

Dubravka replaced Pope for the final portion of Newcastle’s victory over the Red Devils and the Slovakian will likely be entrusted to deputise for his teammate at least until the new year.

Newcastle do not have any room in their Premier League squad to add a new player meaning they cannot make changes to bring De Gea or a replacement in until January, when they can unregister Sandro Tonali, who will be unavailable until August due to suspension.

© ProShots - Nick Pope will face an extended spell on the sidelines for Newcastle

As a result, a move to Newcastle is perhaps unlikely for De Gea but he would still be an option if the situation worsens for the Magpies.

Dubravka has made more than 100 appearances for Newcastle but has only played four times since Pope’s arrival, having also spent time on loan at Old Trafford as a backup for De Gea last season.

The 34-year-old made two appearances in the Carabao Cup for Erik ten Hag’s side, making him cup tied for the final upon his return to Newcastle, which they lost to Man Utd in a game where third-choice keeper Karius made his one and only cameo so far for the Magpies.