Real Madrid are having second thoughts over signing Manchester United star David De Gea, reports Spanish publication AS.
The form of Keylor Navas and recent signing Kiko Casilla in pre-season is making Los Merengues re-think their efforts to sign the 24-year-old. However, those close to the player still think that a move is possible [AS].
Despite this development, the Spain international was left out of United’s 1-0 victory over Tottenham on Saturday. The rumours linking him to the Bernabeu have unsettled the player, making him impossible to pick according to the Daily Mail. He could end up disappointed if a move doesn’t materialise.
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The Red Devils have started looking at contingency plans, in case Los Blancos do follow up on their earlier interest. A bid for Atletico Madrid ace Jan Oblak has been rejected [Metro], while Ajax star Jasper Cillessen has also been linked with a move to Old Trafford [Daily Mail].
If United are forced in to buying a replacement, he will have some big shoes to fill.
Last season, De Gea was the Red Devils’ star performer, helping to make up for an error-prone defence containing Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, and Jonny Evans at key moments. With the added pressure of the Champions League this time round it will be an even bigger job between the sticks, and despite the encouraging showing made by Sergio Romero against Tottenham, van Gaal may well be hoping that his new man sticks around.