Manchester United are quietly exploring the possibility of a remarkable return for goalkeeper and club legend David de Gea.
The Red Devils have been informed that the 34-year-old Spaniard has a clause in his contract with Fiorentina allowing him to leave for a relatively modest fee.
According to The Sun, discreet background calls are being made following De Gea’s impressive return to Old Trafford for a friendly last weekend, during which he hinted to fans that their “paths may cross again.”
With the season opener against Arsenal approaching, manager Ruben Amorim has kept Andre Onana uncertain about whether he will be his No. 1 this season.
Amorim noted: “It is like the other players. They all have to earn their place. I am not going to reveal if one player is the number one.”
De Gea made 545 appearances for United between 2011 and 2023, placing him seventh on the club’s all-time list. However, a dip in form and a contract dispute led to his departure, after which former manager Erik ten Hag secured Onana from Inter Milan for £43.8 million.
De Gea remained without a club for the entirety of the 2023-24 season, but his determination and form have returned at Fiorentina.
United ideally need to offload either Onana, 29, or Turkish backup goalkeeper Altay Bayindir to free up wages. However, they may still find a way to accommodate De Gea if his transfer fee is low enough.
He was presented with a framed picture by former teammate Bruno Fernandes during a pre-season friendly, which concluded in a 1-1 draw between United and Fiorentina.