Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes would like to see David de Gea sign a new contract.
The Spaniard is out of contract at the end of the season and terms over a new deal are yet to be agreed.
According to The Athletic, United’s initial offer was rejected by De Gea, but an agreement is expected to be reached in the near future.
De Gea stressed in an interview with Sky Sports News this week that he intends to stay at United for the long-term future.
Speaking to the Webby & O’Neill YouTube channel, Scholes outlined why he believes it is important that Erik ten Hag keeps hold of De Gea.
“I think David, over the last few years, has shown what a quality ‘keeper he is,” Scholes told the Webby & O’Neill YouTube channel.
“He probably hasn’t had the greatest of form for a year or so but I think he is now looking like the top class goalkeeper that he always was, I suppose.
“It is up to the manager and I think he has a big part to play [in deciding his future]. I know, in an ideal world, he would like a ‘keeper that can play out from the back; I don’t think that is David’s strength.
“I think David, which I think is the most important thing, is a great shot-stopper, who makes great saves and wins you a lot of points, which (Peter) Schmeichel and (Edwin) Van der Sar did back in the day. I think it is important they try and sign him.
“He has given us great service, the fans love him, the crowd love him and he is a great lad as well.”
Furthermore, Scholes believes De Gea has something other players don’t, after previously winning a Premier League title with United.
“David has been around here when going for league titles,” added Scholes.
“David will have a big influence on that dressing room, I’m sure.
“He is one of those leaders that is needed. There are three or four in that dressing room now and David is a big part of that, I would have thought.”
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