LONDON - Real Madrid are reportedly poised to rekindle their interest in Manchester United’s David de Gea this summer – two years after a deal to sign the goalkeeper fell through on transfer deadline day.
The 26-year-old has firmly established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the world during his six year stay at Old Trafford, but has repeatedly flirted with the idea of a move back to Madrid, having started his career at La Liga giants Atlético.
Real Madrid are eager to sign a world-class goalkeeper ahead of the 2017/18 season, especially given the number of high-profile mistakes made by Keylor Navas this season.
And a number of Spanish newspapers, including Marca and Don Balon, have suggested Real will once again test United’s resolve by bidding around £60m for the Spanish international.
Should Real be successful in tempting De Gea away from Old Trafford, there are a number of players Jose Mourinho could turn to as a replacement.
Samir Handanović
The experienced Slovenian has long been linked with a move to these shores and would be available for significantly less than many of the other names on this list. A solid, if slightly unspectacular, choice to replace De Gea.
Gianluigi Donnarumma
The 18-year-old is regarded as the best young goalkeeper in the world, having broke into the AC Milan first-team last season. The player is represented by Mino Raiola, which is a promising sign for United.
Keylor Navas
Real Madrid's original plan to buy David de Gea involved sending Keylor Navas to Old Trafford, something which could well transpire this summer.
Kasper Schmeichel
The Leicester goalkeeper has enjoyed another superb season even as his team has struggled and would be a popular signing, given his father's history with the club.
Hugo Lloris
Spurs wouldn't let their captain leave without a fight, but Lloris recently refused to rule out a move away from White Hart Lane, claiming he would only stay at the club for as long as Mauricio Pochettino was coach.
Jan Oblak
The Slovenian international is widely regarded as one of the finest goalkeepers in the world. However it is difficult to see Atletico selling both Oblak and Antoine Griezmann to United this summer.
Jasper Cillessen
Repeatedly linked with a move to Manchester during Louis van Gaal's reign, Cillessen has made just 1 La Liga appearance since quitting Ajax for Barcelona. Would likely be a more affordable option.
Ederson
Manchester City are thought to be leading the race to sign Benfica's Ederson. But with United also in need of a new keeper, it would not be surprising if United attempted to hijack the deal.
Bernd Leno
Still only 25, Leverkusen goalkeeper Leno is regarded as the eventual heir to Manuel Neuer in goal for Germany. A fine shot stopper.
Diego Alves
The 31-year-old has repeatedly been linked with a move to United over the years. If Jose Mourinho is unable to land other targets, he may well turn to the Brazilian veteran.
Jack Butland
Butland's brilliant form at the end of 2015 saw him tipped to replace De Gea at United. An ankle injury meant he dropped off the radar somewhat, but with the player close to a return to action, United could make their move this summer.