Man Utd star David de Gea ‘has clear stance’ as huge Saudi Arabia offer expected

Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea is reportedly keen to remain at Old Trafford beyond this season, despite a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia being in the works. The Spain international is out of contract this summer but the Red Devils can activate a one-year extension clause in the deal to prevent their No 1 from departing.

De Gea endured a rollercoaster of a campaign at the Theatre of Dreams, making numerous unbelievable saves but also making several costly errors – with some feeling that the ex-Atletico Madrid keeper should have done better to keep out Ilkay Gundogan’s second in the FA Cup final last weekend.

Regardless, Erik ten Hag has made it no secret that he is pleased with the performances of the 32-year-old and would like him to remain at the club for the foreseeable future. However, his significant wages have been an issue in contract extension negotiations over the past few months, with United attempting to agree a reduction in his salary.

The situation has attracted interest from around Europe, though those in the Middle East have also been alerted to the situation as the Saudi Pro League attempt to develop their standard of football. Though a move to Saudi Arabia does not appeal to De Gea, according to journalist Pablo Parra.

He told Radio MARCA: “Saudi Arabia is now thinking of signing David de Gea. He wants to stay at Manchester United.”

Saudi officials are desperate to acquire proven talent this summer, having already signed Cristiano Ronaldo previously and recently agreeing on a deal to sign Karim Benzema. Officials are currently in talks with Chelsea star N’Golo Kante and free agent Lionel Messi, whilst also identifying Manchester City’s Ilkay Gundogan as a potential target if he opts not to extend his stay at the Etihad Stadium.

It remains to be seen how United react to interest in De Gea and if it prompts them to accelerate contract talks and reach an agreement with the shot-stopper. Ten Hag is in the market for another goalkeeper this summer to provide cover for the Spaniard and eventually succeed him between the sticks, with Dean Henderson expected to complete a move to Nottingham Forest this summer.

United are admirers of Spanish duo Robert Sanchez and David Raya, with both goalkeepers expected to leave Brighton and Brentford respectively. Porto star Diogo Costa is also in the shortlist of targets, with Chelsea also keen on acquiring the services of the 23-year-old too.