David de Gea is in his final year in Manchester United contract. Still, he is reluctant to sign a new deal to extend his stay. What might be cooking in De Gea’s mind?
De Gea will be out of contract at Old Trafford at the end of the season. He will be free to enter pre-contract talks with clubs from abroad from January 1st.
Here is the thing. Former Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar says De Gea is not irreplaceable in Manchester United. Which means, if he decided to leave on a free transfer, he can be replaced.
Van der Sar says, “the decision needs to come at a certain point. It takes a long time now, so it’s a case of ‘yes’ or ‘no’, but am not a director of United.”
“Other goalkeepers can also fill the gap. A few Premier League goalkeepers playing at the club can also take the step up.”
“I was 34 when I went to United. So, there are lots of opportunities there.”
Let’s see what Solskjaer has to say
Manchester United boss remains hopeful that De Gea will sign a new contract at the club despite uncertainty over his future.
It emerged in the summer, De Gea had verbally agreed a six-year deal with United. The club expected him to sign his long-term deal upon their return to Europe from the pre-season tour.
However, De Gea has still not committed to United and is approaching the last months of his contract.
Solskjaer has installed De Gea as the first-team captain. Additionally, he has held extensive talks with De Gea about re-signing for the club.
He says, “I want David to stay here. He knows that and he’s the best goalkeeper in the world. We have seen that over the years and I hope I can make sure he will finish his career at Man United at the highest level.”
David De Gea himself.
It is understood De Gea is grateful for the support he received from Solskjaer and his backroom coaching staff.
He also enjoys an excellent relationship with his goalkeeping coach and mentor, Emilio Alvarez, the only surviving member of Jose Mourinho’s coaching staff still at United.
As I wind up, it is crystal clear that David De Gea has a task ahead of him. Should he extend his contract at Manchester United and fulfill his career as Solskjaer says, or should he leave the club and be easily replaced as per Edwin van der Sar statements. It’s upon him to decide.