Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has admitted that he faces the challenge of persuading David de Gea to remain at the Theatre of Dreams, ahead of a potential move to Real Madrid.
The 24-year-old’s season may have ended prematurely after suffering a hamstring injury 73 minutes into his side’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal, and the extent of the trouble is yet to be revealed. As a result, he may have pulled on the United jersey for the last time, amidst firm reports of a possible switch to La Liga.
The Spanish international is marked as a potential replacement to fellow countryman Iker Casillas, and recent reports suggest the goalkeeper turned down a bumper £200k-a-week deal at Old Trafford, almost three times his current earnings.
A possible return to Spain, where he represented Atletico Madrid prior to his £17 million transfer, is believed to be tempting the number one with a possibility of rejoining his family and girlfriend in his homeland. His family currently fly regularly between Spain and England, making life somewhat difficult for the goalkeeper, according to van Gaal.
The 63-year-old manager has now made his boldest statement regarding his shot-stopper to date, and while he does not know if Real Madrid have made a formal offer, believes it may be a challenge keeping hold off the in-form keeper.
“De Gea is Spanish, he is a Spanish international,” he said. “He is still behind Casillas but now a Spanish club is coming. His girlfriend is Spanish and his father and mother come over every week or two weeks to watch him – it is difficult for him.”
The manager insisted he would no longer attempt to persuade de Gea, who has one season remaining on his contract, to sign a new long-term deal. “I don’t think I can persuade him because he knows everything that he has at Manchester United at this moment,” he added.
“I don’t have to say anything for the benefit of Manchester United because he can feel everything. The crowd has been unbelievable. You have seen that reaction here. It has been unbelievable, for the team and for him individually.
“When he is going he is losing that because here he has a lot of credits.”
It is believed de Gea will hold a ‘family meeting’ at the end of the season, and will consider his options. He also has the decision of signing a new short-term contract with the Red Devils, to allow the club to demand a substantial transfer fee from Real Madrid, or see out his contract and then join the Spanish outfit.
Nevertheless, van Gaal is aware the decision will not be easy for de Gea, due to the nature and status of his current club. “A transfer is a process involving a player, a club and his present club. He has to choose.
“It is not easy to choose between two great clubs. We would be very happy if he stays. Of course he is Spanish and his girlfriend is Spanish and he can go to another great club, so it is difficult for him to decide.
“David de Gea shall not leave us so easily because we are a great club and he wants to participate.”
The goalkeeper had featured in every minute of Manchester United’s season prior to his injury.
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