The speculations linking David de Gea back to his homeland simply refuse to die down. Manchester United goalkeeper, de Gea was reportedly close to joining Real Madrid last summer, but the deal eventually fell through and he went on to sign a new deal with the Old Trafford outfit. Marca, via Metro reports that de Gea has a £52m release clause, which Real Madrid would be willing to pay. After a rocky start to his Manchester United career, De Gea has established himself as one of the best goalkeepers, as he is rated second only to Bayern Munich custodian, Manuel Neuer as the best shot-stopper in the world.
A deadline day move to the Santiago Bernabeu fell through last summer as a mix up arose over the faxing of documents. The goalkeeper’s heart was set on a move to Madrid, yet, he showed his commitment in Loius Van Gaal’s season and further endeared himself to the fans.
The £52m fee will prove a problem, as the world record fee for a goalkeeper still remains &37m, the amount Juventus paid Parma for the signature of Gianluigi Buffon. Los Blancos would be willing to sign him for a reduced fee in 2018, when he enters the final year of his contract.
De Gea is on a reported £200,000 a week contract, and that is the highest amount being earned by a goalkeeper. De Gea is known for his amazing reflexes, extraordinary shot stopping prowess and at times, unbelievable saves. Madrid wants him, as they feel he is the long-term replacement to legendary Madrid goalkeeper, Iker Casillas. Manchester United are suffering their worst period in recent years in terms of trophies, but De Gea, to his testament, has won Player of the Year three times consecutively at the club.
He has not hidden his desire to play for Madrid, but the ties he shares with Atletico may mean he may not always feel the love at the Bernabeu. His family members are still based in Madrid and he believes he will cement his place as his national team’s first choice if he plays in the La Liga.
