Manchester United might be delving into the free agent market to secure a “complete” player as cover for a regular member of the squad, according to recent reports.
Transfer Update for Manchester United
Erik ten Hag and the team at Old Trafford were actively involved in the summer transfer window, making several permanent and loan deals. Nevertheless, the club also explored the free agent market by bringing in Jonny Evans after his departure from Leicester City. The experienced center-back has already made three Premier League starts, contributing an assist for Bruno Fernandes’ match-winner against Burnley.
The summer also saw some players exit Manchester United, with the club receiving transfer fees for individuals like Dean Henderson, Anthony Elanga, and Fred. However, a few players, such as Phil Jones, Axel Tuanzebe, and David de Gea, saw their Old Trafford contracts come to an end. While De Gea was replaced by Andre Onana in the summer, he is yet to find a new club. Recent developments suggest that a return to Manchester United might be in the cards.
The Sun has provided an update on David de Gea’s transfer situation in the last 48 hours, reporting that Manchester United is contemplating an astonishing move to re-sign the goalkeeper on a free transfer, just three months after his release. The report indicates that the club has concerns about the lack of depth when Onana participates in the Africa Cup of Nations in the New Year, and thus, they are exploring the possibility of reuniting with De Gea.
David de Gea back in Manchester
De Gea was recently seen in Manchester with Bruno Fernandes. The pair, along with Tom Heaton, Raphael Varane, and Victor Lindelof, shared a coffee outing following the 2-1 victory over Sheffield United. Earlier this year, Ten Hag praised De Gea, referring to him as the “complete goalkeeper.”
“David is a really multi-functional and complete goalkeeper. We are very happy with him.”
Once Onana departs for AFCON in the New Year, Heaton and the newly-signed Altay Bayindir will be the only senior goalkeeper options available to Ten Hag. Therefore, a potential reunion with De Gea might make sense, although it could raise questions as to why he was let go initially if a deal is indeed struck.
De Gea’s return would bring valuable experience at the highest level, making this a situation worth monitoring in the months ahead, provided the 32-year-old remains without a club.