Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag appears keen to strengthen a number of areas in his squad this summer, but a lot will depend on whether the Glazers sell the club before the transfer window opens.
That would give prospect owners a chance to plan for the first season, as Ten Hag looks to take more steps forward in his second term in charge, with the Reds gunning to get back into the Champions League.
We know that David de Gea has come under criticism for his poor distribution and lack of presence in his own box. His mammoth contract is set to expire in the summer, and the Spaniard has yet to sign fresh terms with the club.
While Brentford’s David Raya has been tipped as a potential replacement for De Gea, another name worth keeping an eye on is FC Porto’s Diogo Costa.
The Portugal number one was brilliant again last night in a scoreless draw against Inter Milan in the Champions League, although the Italians did enough in the first leg to eliminate Porto.
Costa possesses a skill set that would make him a perfect choice for Ten Hag, and at 23-years-old I think he would be a screwed signing. His release clause is steep at £65m but it shows how highly he’s valued at Porto.
Contrary to widespread belief, transfer expect Fabrizio Romano has insisted he wouldn’t be surprised if De Gea remains United’s No. 1 for next season.
Romano has claimed on The United Stand that De Gea could well be United’s first choice keeper next season despite interest in other keepers.
He said: “From what I understand, they’re still speaking to David de Gea. They’re still speaking to David de Gea [about] a new contract, they’re still discussing on different terms – this is why they didn’t trigger the option to extend the contract until June 2024, because they want to change the salary structure for David de Gea and find a way together with the player.
“So, I would not be surprised if the goalkeeper of Man United next season would be again David de Gea. He has a good relationship with many teammates, a good relationship with the coach.
“Of course, with his feet, he’s probably not the best in the world, but we also know he is also an important and popular player in the dressing room for Manchester United.
“At the moment, the conversation between David de Gea and Man United is still ongoing and they’re still discussing over a new contract.”
This would suggest that De Gea is set to sign a new deal at United and remain first choice. Let us know what you think about that in the comments section below.
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