Former Manchester United keeper David de Gea left the club after 12 long seasons following the completion of his contract this summer. The Spanish shot-stopper has not signed anywhere else and remains a free agent, despite being linked with Bayern Munich and clubs in the Saudi Pro League.
The Premier League Golden Glove winner was rumored to reunite with Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League after his Man Utd contract expired. While some reports suggested he might return to La Liga, none of these possibilities actually materialized. Now, the 32-year-old is linked with the Red Devils once again.
David de Gea to Man Utd rumors
David de Gea joined the Red Devils from La Liga giants Atletico Madrid in 2011 under legendary Manchester United boss, Sir Alex Ferguson. He was brought in to replace the legendary Dutch keeper, Edwin van der Sar, at Old Trafford. De Gea bid an emotional farewell to the club after it was decided they would not renew his contract following extensive discussions about renewal this summer.
Eric ten Hag, the former manager of Ajax Amsterdam, acquired his former keeper, Andre Onana, from Inter Milan as an upgrade, paying a transfer fee of $57 million. The Cameroonian international had a rough start with the Red Devils, but now he is settling in steadily.
Recently, it was revealed that Man United boss Ten Hag is upset with Andre Onana’s choice to represent Cameroon at the AFCON next year in January. Amidst an array of fixtures scheduled for that month, United will be without their number one.
Reportedly, the English club is exploring options to bring back David de Gea to the club for a short-term deal of 6 months during Onana’s absence, as the club fears they might have few options in January-February. They had sold their second-choice keeper, Dean Henderson, earlier this summer.
Andre Onana expected to go to AFCON
The Cameroonian international recently came out of retirement to represent his national side in September this year after being requested by the Cameroonian FA and government. He is expected to be a part of the Cameroon national team squad in the Africa Cup of Nations tournament after helping his side secure the qualifications. The tournament is set to kick off in January 2024.
Ten Hag’s faith in the 27-year-old has finally paid off with his improved displays in the past few matches at the back. The Man United keeper will miss 9 matches for the club if he opts to play in the AFCON, prioritizing his national team commitments over his club duties. In the case of a backup, Ten Hag’s likely option will be Altay Bayindir, who joined from Fenerbahce on the deadline day.