Key Takeaways:
- Manchester United have discreetly explored the possibility of re-signing David de Gea following his recent Old Trafford appearance
- De Gea, now at Fiorentina, has a contractual clause enabling a departure for a modest fee
- United’s goalkeeping situation remains uncertain as Andre Onana’s status ahead of their Arsenal opener is yet to be confirmed
Old Trafford Return Beckons for De Gea?
Manchester United are conducting covert enquiries regarding a potential return for club legend David de Gea. The 34-year-old Spaniard, currently with Fiorentina, is believed to have a clause in his contract allowing him to exit for a relatively minor sum—a detail which has reignited United’s interest.
Speculation intensified after De Gea’s highly appreciated showing at Old Trafford during last weekend’s friendly. His comments to supporters, notably “our paths may cross again,” have further fuelled talk of his comeback.
🚨 𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚: Manchester United are making hush-hush checks about a remarkable return for goalkeeper and club legend David De Gea.
(Source: @SunSport) pic.twitter.com/o1iBif67Mg
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) August 17, 2025
Managerial Decisions Loom Over Goalkeeper Selection
Ahead of Manchester United’s high-profile opening fixture against Arsenal, head coach Ruben Amorim has yet to clarify whether Andre Onana will retain his role as first-choice goalkeeper. Amorim said: “It is like the other players. They all have to win their place. I am not going to say if one guy is number one.”
De Gea’s previous tenure saw him don the United shirt 545 times between 2011 and 2023, ranking seventh in all-time appearances for the club. However, a spell of poor form and a contract impasse resulted in his exit, prompting Erik ten Hag to authorise a £43.8million deal for Onana from Inter Milan.
De Gea’s Career After United and Fiorentina Clause
De Gea spent the 2023-24 campaign without a club but has since recaptured both fitness and form at Fiorentina. The existence of a buy-out clause in his contract—available for a comparatively low price—presents United with a tempting proposition, though wage constraints mean that the departure of Onana, aged 29, or Turkish deputy Altay Bayindir, may be necessary to facilitate his return. However, the club could potentially integrate De Gea if the financial terms prove sufficiently favourable.
During United’s recent 1-1 pre-season friendly draw with Fiorentina, De Gea was honoured with a framed photograph from former team-mate Bruno Fernandes. De Gea posted on Instagram: “A magical moment for me and my family to come back to Old Trafford — my home. From the bottom of my heart — I want to say thank you for the reception — for all the love you showed me. To the supporters that never stopped being with me throughout my time at this club. Our paths may cross again.”
Goalkeeping Uncertainty Ahead of Arsenal Clash
Onana, who missed all of pre-season due to a hamstring issue sustained in early July, has returned to training this week and is expected to feature against Arsenal on Sunday. The Cameroonian’s position remains under scrutiny amid the club’s links to several high-profile goalkeeping targets, including Aston Villa’s Emi Martinez, Paris Saint-Germain’s Gianluigi Donnarumma, and John Victor of Botafogo.
Nevertheless, Ruben Amorim has expressed continued faith in Onana, who received support during a challenging spell last season, with no new signings made in the goalkeeping department to date. Amorim commented: “He is ready to go to the game. Let’s wait. You will know on Sunday. Myself as a coach, the players who were here last year, we can do better. I have full confidence on that.”
Bayindir and Other Targets
Altay Bayindir, aged 27, was widely expected to leave the club this summer but instead has deputised throughout United’s unbeaten pre-season preparations. Meanwhile, 23-year-old Senne Lammens from Antwerp, another reported target, is currently in advanced talks with Inter Milan.
Manchester United’s 2025 Transfer Movements
| IN | ||
|---|---|---|
| Bryan Mbeumo | Brentford | £71m |
| Matheus Cunha | Wolves | £62.5m |
| Diego Leon | Cerro Porteno | £7m |
| Benjamin Sesko | RB Leipzig | £74m |
| TOTAL | £214.5m | |
| OUT | ||
| Victor Lindelof | Released | |
| Christian Eriksen | Released | |
| TOTAL | £0m | |
Conclusion
Manchester United’s goalkeeping department is undergoing scrutiny as the club discreetly considers a reunion with David de Gea. With contract clauses and transfer targets under review, and uncertainty over the No.1 shirt ahead of their Premier League opener, further developments are eagerly anticipated by fans and analysts alike.
