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After 12 years at the club, David de Gea has left Manchester United following the expiry of his contract this summer.
But the truth about his exit and the alleged contract offers given to the Spaniard have been revealed by insiders at the club.
Contrary to reports, De Gea was never actually offered a new deal at Old Trafford, according to the Manchester Evening News.
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De Gea confirmed on Saturday afternoon that he would United, and it looks like United have lined up Inter Milan goalkeeper Andre Onana as his direct replacement.
The same report states that people within the club insist that no contract was ever formally offered to the 32-year-old, while also claiming that the former no.1 had reflected on his situation at the close of the 2022/23 season.
United and De Gea mutually agreed that it was the right time to go their separate ways, with manager Erik ten Hag determined to complete the signing of Onana from Inter Milan before the start of their pre-season tour.
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United are thought to need to improve their bid before it gets accepted, but they are optimistic of signing the Cameroonian shot-stopper, who helped his side reach the Champions League final last season.
Onana has reportedly agreed personal terms with the Red Devils, meaning the fee is the only stumbling block in the way of the deal.
United also have Dean Henderson on their books, as the 26-year-old has recently returned from a loan stint at Nottingham Forest.
However, it is widely expected that he will leave this summer, with Forest tipped to sign him on a permanent deal.
Third choice keeper Tom Heaton had his contract renewed at the end of last season, though he is reportedly keen to experience regular football as he enters the final years of his career with Everton and Luton linked to the 37-year-old.
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Explaining his departure, De Gea's penned a heartfelt message to United supporters that confirmed 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.
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“I took incredible pride everytime 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.
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“We’ve seen it all.”
And Ten Hag added: “I’m personally grateful for the 25 clean sheets he 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.”
Featured Image Credit: PA ImagesTopics: David De Gea, Manchester United, Football, Premier League