United boss concedes Romero could replace De Gea.
Real Madrid’s interest in signing David de Gea has played a part in Louis van Gaal’s decision to bring Sergio Romero to Man Utd this summer, according to the Daily Mirror.
The Red Devils last night announced a deal for the Argentine goalkeeper on their official website, with the 28-year-old signing a three-year contract and earning big praise from his new manager.
Although Van Gaal has recently been quoted in the Independent as saying he hopes to keep De Gea this summer, it could be that this signing is a major hint at his departure, with Romero certainly good enough to be number one after some superb performances for club and country down the years.
Still, De Gea was one of the club’s star performers last season and will prove a hard act to follow at Old Trafford, even if the Dutchman sung the new arrival’s praises in an interview with ManUtd.com.
“Sergio is a very talented goalkeeper. He was a young keeper during my time at AZ Alkmaar and I am delighted he is joining Manchester United,” LVG is quoted as saying.
SEE ALSO:
Fifa 16 young players set for a ratings increase, including Pogba!
Deal today: Arsenal star confirms he’s set for transfer away [Instagram Video]
Manchester United transfer rumours
Still, he added that the De Gea situation persuaded him to make the move, admitting that there is a threat of the Spanish international making the move to the Bernabeu this summer.
He added: “I think that in our circumstances, with the threat that David de Gea is going to Real Madrid, we have to prepare our season and I think Sergio Romero can fulfil that because you have to handle very quickly when it may happen with David de Gea.”
Another report from the Metro today suggests United could also be about to announce another goalkeeper signing in the form of Ajax shot-stopper Jasper Cillessen, sparking even further confusion over who will be the Reds’ number one in 2015/16.