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Topics: David De Gea, Man Utd, Premier League, Transfers
Jack Kenmare
Topics: David De Gea, Man Utd, Premier League, Transfers
David De Gea would "consider" a move to Manchester United, according to a former Spain international, after the goalkeeper was linked with a surprise return to Old Trafford.
To the dismay of many supporters, De Gea left United in the summer of 2023 after the club decided against offering him a new contract.
The 34-year-old goalkeeper, who made 545 appearances for the Reds between 2011 and 2023, would spend a year on the sidelines as a free agent before signing for Serie A side Fiorentina in August last year.
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“I received many offers but I wanted to play in Italy," he explained. "The negotiation was simple, Fiorentina were the best option. Many people wanted to see me return to action, which is a good sign.”
He would soon make his first competitive appearance in 446 days as the Italian side came up against Hungarian outfit Puskas Akademia in the Europa Conference League.
De Gea was replaced by Andre Onana in July 2023, although the Cameroon international eventually lost his number one spot after a series of high-profile errors and has since been loaned out to Turkish side Trabzonspor.
United recently signed Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp as another goalkeeper option, but they were linked with a move for De Gea.
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A report from The Sun claimed they made so-called 'hush-hush checks' about a return for the Spaniard, who is said to have made 'a good impression' on his return to Old Trafford for a pre-season friendly.
And now, former Spain international Gaizka Mendieta has tipped the experienced shot-stopper to make a United return.
"I would have liked David de Gea to stay for sure, 100 per cent," he told OLBG. "I'm sure he would have liked to stay as well. Then that sabbatical year would not have happened.
"He still came back, went to Italy, and was the best goalkeeper in the Italian league. So it tells you the kind of goalkeeper that he is. He is still one of the best goalkeepers in Italy, probably internationally. Even if it’s hard to compare different competitions.
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"To go back to Man Utd? I'm sure he would consider it. He was very happy there, he enjoyed being at a club like United. But he's also happy where is now."
Mendieta added: "I think it was a rushed move away from United even if they wanted a change, they needed to have a good replacement."
Speaking after the pre-season friendly between United and Fiorentina this summer, De Gea said he may cross paths with United supporters again in the future.
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“A magical moment for me and my family to come back to Old Trafford — my home," he wrote in a social media post. "From the bottom of my heart — I want to say thank you for the reception — for all the love you showed me."
He added: “To the supporters that never stopped being with me throughout my time at this club. Our paths may cross again. We've seen it all."