David de Gea refused to get drawn into contract speculation with the media during Manchester United’s pre-match press conference this week.
Tonight, the Spaniard will take his usual place between the sticks at Old Trafford when United take on Sevilla in a Europa League quarter-final first-leg tie.
There had been ongoing uncertainty surrounding his future at the club, as his current deal is set to expire in June, but Erik ten Hag is reportedly adamant about keeping De Gea beyond the summer and as his No.1 for the foreseeable future.
However, the ‘keeper will need to take a significant pay cut if he plans on staying. De Gea is currently the Red Devils’ highest earner on a whopping £375,000 a week – a wage which the hierarchy is keen on reducing.
Talks have begun between the board and the 32-year-old, though he has rejected the first contract proposal offered by United.
De Gea refuses to comment on contract speculation
He was quizzed on the prospect of his contract negotiations during this week’s press conference.
A reporter questioned: “Are you still expecting to stay at the club next season and beyond?”
De Gea responded (via MEN): “I think it’s time just to be focused on games because we play many games in a row, so it’s not time to lose the focus and think about contracts. My mind is just ready to go and keep playing as my best – that’s where my mind is. Keep going, be focused on training and playing games.”
