Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal says goalkeeper David de Gea has yet to decide on his future, despite reports from Spain indicating the 24-year-old has agreed to personal terms with Real Madrid.
On Friday, the Spanish newspaper Marca published a story claiming De Gea had agreed a deal worth around £4 million a year after tax, with a contract length between five and six years to join Real Madrid.
All that what said to be missing in order to make the transfer complete was an agreed fee between the two clubs.
However, speaking after today’s 1-1 draw with Arsenal, Louis van Gaal indicated that De Gea was still having a hard time deciding between the club which has showered him with support since his arrival in June 2011, and returning to Madrid where his family and girlfriend currently live.
“I have said the transfer is an individual thing. It’s a process.” Van Gaal said during his post-match press conference. “[De Gea] has to decide.
“We have given a fantastic contract because we want him to stay.
“But I analyze his position and then I say: ‘He is Spanish. He is Spain international, still playing behind Casillas. Now, a Spanish club is coming. His girlfriend is Spanish. His father and mother come every two weeks [from Spain] to watch him’.
“And still this decision is difficult for him. It is a big compliment for Manchester United.”
When asked if he could persuade De Gea to stay at the club, much like he persuaded Memphis Depay to join United despite strong interest from Paris Saint-Germain, Van Gaal said there was nothing more to say to the player.
“I don’t think I can persuade him,” the manager responded. “Because he knows everything he has here at Manchester United.
“I don’t have to say anything on behalf of Manchester United because he can feel it every day. As you’ve seen with the fans today. Unbelievable their reaction for him.
“So if he leaves, he is losing that.”
