Erik ten Hag accused of contradicting himself with Manchester United decision

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has appeared to contradict himself with his decision on the future of goalkeeper David de Gea.

It has been reported that the United boss is keen on having De Gea around beyond this summer, which is when the Spaniard’s contract is due to expire.

According to the Daily Star, the Old Trafford club are looking to reduce the goalkeeper’s mammoth £375,000 per week wages by slashing at least £100,000 per week, which will save them more than £5 million per year.

Ten Hag’s decision to offer De Gea a new contract has surprised a few after reports claimed that the Dutchman was looking to sign a goalkeeper who will replace the current United no.1.

United are believed to be eyeing Everton’s England stopper Jordan Pickford as a potential replacement for De Gea.

Pickford played a key role in helping Everton survive relegation last season and may look for a fresh challenge after the World Cup.

Alamy

The Mirror reported that Brighton goalkeeper Robert Sanchez is another player being targeted by Ten Hag. The 24-year-old has produced some impressive displays for the Seagulls and as a result been rewarded with a place in Luis Enrique’s Spain squad for the World Cup.

Leeds’ Ilan Meslier and Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa are two other players that United are said to be keeping an eye on.

De Gea has previously spoken about his future, he said: “This is my club and this is where I feel good. I'm playing well - I feel very well. I think I have many more years to play. I feel confident.

“Yes, I would like to stay here more years and make records of games and records of everything. To try to help the young people here as well with my experience and try to win trophies.”

Alamy

Whilst Ten Hag has also been quizzed on the Spaniard’s future.

The United boss said: “We didn't make a decision on him but what I can say is that I am really happy with David de Gea as a 'keeper. His first two games of the season were not his best performances but after it you see he brings us really a lot for the defence department, giving stability.

“As a person also I like him. I can really cooperate with him really well. But first we go to the winter and then we will talk about how we deal with such situations.”

Will De Gea stay at United? Only time will tell.