De Gea deal a matter of ‘pride’

David de Gea has established himself as one of the world’s best goalkeeper. That, and Real Madrid have started their bidding from as low as £13m. The Spanish goalkeeper’s contract situations put United at a risk of letting their star player leave for a price which might even be less than what they paid to Atletico Madrid. The 24-year-old has just 1 year left on his contract.

The De Gea deal has now become a matter of pride for the Old Trafford club and are ready to risk the player leaving for free next year. The club values the player at £30m and do not want him to be a joke in the market. However, reports in Spain suggest United have asked for Sergio Ramos to be included in the deal if Madrid are to have any chance of landing David de Gea.

Current executive Vice-Chairman Ed Woodward is believed to be very stern regarding United’s dealing. While on the tour of US last summer, when asked about transfers and budgets, Woodward said:  “We’ve been working with Louis over several weeks with regards to targets and we’re continuing to move forward on some of those targets.”

“We are still a huge attraction to top football stars around the world – there is no doubt about that. I hope [fans] will see the direction we’re heading in with the new manager, coaching staff and players, and a commitment to do what it takes to get back to the top.

“We are willing to invest. There is no fixed budget. Financially we are extremely strong and funds are available. Louis is assessing what’s going on and there is a lot of work going on behind the scenes, so watch this space.”

With this attitude, Real Madrid and Perez may find it tough to get a hold of their top target this transfer season. This transfer saga seems far from being done and may go on till the last day. David de Gea’s transfer saga will stay the saga of the summer until it’s official.