Man Utd in advanced talks with Spain international despite major Ten Hag concern
Man Utd are currently in advanced talks with goalkeeper David de Gea over a new contract, according to reports.
A deal was initially in doubt after Erik ten Hag introduced the so-called ‘Ronaldo rule’ that meant no player could earn more than £200,000 per week. De Gea is believed to earn far in excess of that amount – around £375,000-a-week.
However, De Gea is reportedly willing to accept a pay cut and talks over an extension are very much back on.
According to Football Insider, United are now in advanced negotiations with the keeper over a three-year deal, worth £200,000, the highest amount they are willing to stretch to. In any case, this will still represents a huge cut in his wages.
Despite previously having concerns about De Gea’s ability to play out from the back, Ten Hag is said to have been impressed by his recent performances and is now willing to keep him at Old Trafford beyond this season.
With the 32-year-old’s current deal set to run out in the summer, De Gea could have left the club on a free transfer, something that the Dutch manager is not willing to let happen.
United do hold an option in De Gea’s contract for an extra year, though they’ve thus far foregone triggering it in favour of forging a brand new deal on greatly reduced terms.
He could certainly remain a key figure in the United dressing room given his clear quality, leadership skills, winning mentality and experience.
The shot-stopper joined the Manchester club back in 2011 during the stewardship of Sir Alex Ferguson.
De Gea’s leadership qualities still valued by United
Since then, De Gea has helped United to win multiple trophies, picking up one league title, a Europa League, an FA Cup, a League Cup and three FA Community Shields.
This season, United have been back to their best, currently sitting in third place in the table after winning 13 of their 21 opening league games.
Despite De Gea now being expected to renew his deal, the Red Devils could still be in the market for a new goalkeeper.
United were linked with a move for Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa as recently December, but they were put off by his £65m asking price.
However, there is a belief that they could potentially go back in for him in the summer, as when their rumoured takeover is finally completed, they will be able to spend greater sums on high calibre signings.
Another player they have targeted in the past is Everton and England number one Jordan Pickford.
The 28-year-old has been in fine form for the Toffees this season, making the third-most saves in the Premier League as they face yet another relegation battle.
He was expected to pen a new deal with Everton prior to the World Cup, but for an unknown reason, the club have so far failed to sign off on his contract, which may open the door for United to make a move.
But, Ten Hag is happy with De Gea for now and if he does sign a three-year extension, they may simply keep him as their main choice for next season despite the links to Costa and Pickford.
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