Jordan Pickford (Everton)
The first Premier League goalkeeper on the list, Pickford has become one of the best in England during his time at Goodison Park and earned himself number one status with the Three Lions at International level in the process.
The 24-year-old was absolutely sensational during England’s run to the World Cup semi-finals this summer, fully justifying manager Gareth Southgate’s faith in him with his mature, commanding displays as the last line of defence, which has he has carried on at club level at the start of the new season.
Everton spent big during the transfer window and new boss Marco Silva is targeting a place in Europe, with Pickford very much a vital part of his plans going forward.
However, it seems like only a matter of time before the Toffees number one moves on to a greater challenge and if De Gea does end up leaving United, he could be the perfect man to fill his boots.
Pickford has the experience and attributes to be successful at the Theatre of Dreams and crucially, he is already well acquainted with several members of Mourinho’s squad from his time with the national team, which could see him settle in quickly.
Jan Oblak (Atletico Madrid)
According to AS, Atletico are planning to increase the realise clause in Oblak’s current deal at the club to an astonishing €200million, in response to the inflated market prices for goalkeepers that Liverpool and Chelsea introduced when buying Alisson and Kepa over the summer.
Paying that amount of money for a number one is unthinkable, or at least, that’s what Atletico officials are hoping, but if De Gea decides to leave Old Trafford United might be faced with a huge decision to make.
One astounding statistic that might convince United to fork out for the Slovenian is his record for Diego Simeone’s men during his last 125 appearances. During that time, Ter Stegen has won more clean sheets (73) than he has conceded goals (72), which is a remarkable feat that underlines his incredible abilities between the sticks.
De Gea is undoubtedly one of the best in the business, but Oblak has a genuine claim to be THE best at the moment and his presence at the back for Atletico solidifies their defensive line as the most intimidating and effective in Europe.
This particular deal might seem like a long shot now, but Mourinho’s hand might be forced in the new year and Atletico would surely be willing to listen to any offers that can smash the current transfer record for a goalkeeper, which stands at £71 million – as per BBC Sport.