United stopper closes in on new Old Trafford contract.
Manchester United have moved a step closer to securing the future of in form goalkeeper David de Gea, according to The Sun.
Progressive talks have been held between the player and the club, who have just signed Victor Valdes on an 18-month deal to act as his Number two.
United are said to be prepared to make de Gea the richest goalkeeper in football history by handing him a £36.4m contract that works out to £140,000 a week. A deal that is much more attractive that his current salary of £60,000-per-week.
United are hopeful or wrapping the deal up quickly in order to keep him out of the clutches of Real Madrid, who have been heavily linked with a move for the youngster to replace Iker Casillas.
The Red Devils fear that De Gea may be tempted to return to Madrid, where he featured for Atletico Madrid before a £17.8m switch to United — a British record for a keeper.
There had been doubts about de Gea’s future after the signing of Valdes, but Louis Van Gaal confirmed that the veteran stopper has been bought in as backup, though remains delighted to have got his man.
Van Gaal said: “I am delighted Victor has signed. He is a very experienced goalkeeper and his record speaks for itself.
“He joins the club as the No2 goalkeeper and is a great addition to the first team.”