No, this time it’s not Pepe Reina, so all you Liverpool fans can turn off your ‘angry’ tone keyboards! Looks like another Spaniard has become the first choice goalkeeper for Sir Alex Ferguson and Co.
David De Gea, the 20 year old Athletico Madrid keeper, has been linked with a move to Old Trafford in the summer following the retirement of Edwin Van Der Sar. At only half the Dutchman’s age, De Gea could be seen by many as a risky move for a club which has already been linked with players the calibre of Stekelenburg and Reina. But Sir Alex sees the young goalie as a real transfer target, and believes that he could sneak the signing for £15 million.
Manchester United are desperate to avoid the confusion that followed the departure of Peter Schmeichel, and want to bring in a replacement for Van Der Sar as soon as possible. It’s also rumoured that United goalkeeping coach, Eric Steele has been taking Spanish lessons, fuelling speculation that it will be a Spaniard rather than another Dutchman or a German that will take Van Der Sar’s place between the sticks.
That still doesn’t mean it won’t be Reina, Liverpool fans. But it does look as if Ferguson is after a bargain that he can mould.
De Gea has kept 21 clean sheets for Athletico Madrid, out of 75 apps. Already it would appear the young man has made quite a name for himself on the continent.It remains to be seen if that name will carry across the Channel to our green and pleasant land!
Follow Peter Turner on Twitter @petermagpie
