Dharmesh Sheth of Sky Sports reports that David de Gea and Manchester United are “in talks” regarding a new contract, and that de Gea may continue to play as the club’s starting custodian in the upcoming campaign.

What’s new with Man United’s custodian?
The Serie A club is expected to demand at least €50m (£44m), according to Sky Sports journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, who recently confirmed Man United’s interest in signing Inter Milan custodian Andre Onana this summer. However, he won’t be cheap.

Illan Meslier plays for Leeds United, according to a report from Football Insider, and the Red Devils may have gained an advantage in the pursuit of him now that journalist Pete O’Rourke says he “might want to leave” this summer.

Erik ten Hag may consider other options as a result of the media criticism Meslier has received for his recent performances, as well as the fact that he has spoken with the agent of Borussia Dortmund custodian Gregor Kobel.

However, given Sheth’s recent update to GiveMeSport on his contract situation, it appears very likely that De Gea will continue to be United’s first choice for the upcoming campaign.

“I would expect David de Gea to remain as the number-one custodian at United next season if he signs that new deal,” said a source. “They are in talks, and there are also some reports that they are close to that new deal.”

Will De Gea still be Man United’s starting custodian?
Speaking on Sky Sports, former Leicester City player Kasper Schmeichel recently praised the Spaniard, calling him a “incredible custodian” and remarking that he has been “playing at a really high level with his feet” thus far this season.

Ten Hag, however, has occasionally criticised the 32-year-old, saying he “can’t ignore” his poor distribution. The manager does believe he is “improving” in that area of the game, but the numbers speak for themselves.

David-de-Gea-man-united-premier-league
The player who makes £375k per week has only received 33.15 touches on average per 90 minutes over the past year, placing him in the 23rd percentile. This suggests that his teammates are reluctant to pass the ball to him because of his propensity to make errors when playing it out from the back.

The former Atletico Madrid player made a mistake that resulted in a goal as the Red Devils fell to Sevilla 3-0 in the Europa League, and Ben Foster said he “has to know better” than to pass the ball to Harry Maguire in that part of the pitch.

In light of this, De Gea might not be a good fit for Ten Hag’s style of play, so it would be best if Man United found a better replacement in the summer.