Manchester United insiders insist David De Gea never received an offer of a new contract, according to reports. The Spain international confirmed on Saturday he’ll be leaving Old Trafford after 12 years. And it’ll be intriguing to see what happens next, with the Red Devils hopeful of signing Andre Onana from Inter Milan.
According to the Manchester Evening News, figures at United insist no contract was ever ‘formally offered’ to De Gea.
And they also claim the Red Devils and their former No 1 ‘reflected on his situation’ at the end of last season.
Both United and De Gea agreed it was the right time to part ways, with Erik ten Hag now determined to sign Andre Onana from Inter Milan.
The club are described as ‘optimistic’ as they look to acquire the Cameroon international, who helped his side reach the Champions League final last season.
A deal is not imminent and compromise is needed if the 27-year-old is to move to Old Trafford.
But United look increasingly poised to land Onana and make him their first-choice goalkeeper next season.
United also have Dean Henderson on their books, with the England international recently returning from a loan stint with Nottingham Forest.
The 26-year-old enjoyed his spell at the City Ground and talked with Ten Hag for the first time last week.
However, while Henderson has looked happy during pre-season so far, he’s still expected to leave.
Forest want a permanent deal for the United star and he’s expected to rejoin the club at some point this summer.
At the end of last season the Red Devils renewed Tom Heaton’s contract by a year.
The 37-year-old is, however, keen to experience regular football as he enters the twilight years of his career.
Everton have been linked amid uncertainty over Jordan Pickford’s future, while Luton are keen as well.
Regarding De Gea, meanwhile, the 32-year-old penned an emotional message to United supporters confirming his exit.
“I just wanted to send this farewell message to all Manchester United supporters,” he said.
“I would like to express my unwavering gratitude and appreciation for the love from the last 12 years.
“We’ve achieved a lot since my dear Sir Alex Ferguson brought me to this club.
“I took incredible pride everytime (sic) I pulled on this shirt, to lead the team, to represent this institution, the biggest club in the world was an honour only bestows upon a few lucky footballers.
“It’s been an unforgettable and successful period since I came here. I didn’t think from leaving Madrid as a young boy we would achieve what we did together.
“Now, it’s the right time to undertake a new challenge, to push myself again in new surroundings.
“Manchester will always be in my heart, Manchester has shaped me and will never leave me.
“We’ve seen it all.”
And Ten Hag added: “I’m personally grateful for the 25 clean sheets he [De Gea] helped provide last season and his overall contribution on the pitch during my first year at the club.
“All the players/staff send him our very best wishes for the next phase of his outstanding career.”
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