According to a report from the Express, Manchester United have intensified the scouting of goalkeepers as they fear David de Gea will not sign a new contract at Old Trafford.
David de Gea, 28, was offered a new contract earlier this year but the deal remains unsigned. His current deal expires at the end of this season and Manchester United fear that they could lose their star shot-stopper for absolutely nothing next summer.
Despite a mediocre 2018/19 campaign and an ordinary start to the new Premier League season, United still want to keep De Gea. But if the Spanish international has not penned fresh terms by January, the Red Devils may opt to cash in midway through the season.
De Gea has arguably been United’s best player over recent years, winning four of the club’s Player of the Year awards since 2014. But the Spaniard is suffering perhaps the worst run of form of his career to date, with him being at fault for Crystal Palace’s winning goal at Old Trafford last month.
Despite the ex-Atletico Madrid shot-stopper suffering a significant dip since last summer, it’ll be very difficult for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer to find a replacement for him.
Back in May, a report from the Daily Star had claimed that United were interested in signing LOSC Lille goalkeeper, Mike Maignan, who was voted as the best goalkeeper in Ligue 1 after helping his side finish as runners up. While a move didn’t happen in the summer, the Red Devils must rekindle their interest and go for the French goalkeeper in January.
Mike Maignan, 24, played every game for Lille last season, conceding just 33 goals in the Ligue 1. His 15 clean sheets played a huge role in the club finishing 2nd in Ligue 1 and subsequently qualifying for the Champions League.
The highly-rated Frenchman is a dynamic stopper who is quick in making stops from close and long-range.
Despite possessing a 6ft 3in frame, he is exceptionally agile and his ability to anticipate danger makes him a really impressive shot-stopper. Maignan is a commanding presence in the box, with his reflexes being one of the best in the Ligue 1 last season.
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Furthermore, the 24-year-old is good with the ball at his feet. Hence, a team can play out from the back with ease knowing that the keeper can pass it out even if hassled by the opposition forward. All in all, Maignan could be a hit at Old Trafford.
Hence, Manchester United shouldn’t hesitate in making a move for Mike Maignan if De Gea is sold in January. He could be an ideal long-term replacement for the flying Spaniard.
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