Seven months after leaving Manchester United, David de Gea is yet to find a new club. The goalkeeper’s 12-year tenure at Old Trafford came to an end last summer when he was released as a free agent.
Andre Onana has subsequently taken his position, with Erik ten Hag also bringing in back-up goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, who has yet to make his debut but will do so when Onana departs for the Africa Cup of Nations later this month.
De Gea has been photographed several times in and around Manchester since his departure, having married fiance Edurne in the summer. It appears that he has not been overly concerned with finding new jobs, keeping himself occupied with other hobbies in the interim.
According to the Athletic, the 33-year-old has been seen playing padel, staying fit in general, and dining out with friends. He has attended United Women’s matches while also heading Rebels Gaming, his own esports squad created in 2021.
De Gea has received a number of bids from other clubs, including ones in the Premier League, but has yet to reach an agreement with any of them. He is prepared to wait for the proper chance.
De Gea is thought to work out three to four times per week to stay in shape for any opportunities that may arise. Newcastle had been connected with him following Nick Pope’s long-term injury, but such chatter has died down in recent weeks, despite his free agency status being attractive due to the club’s Financial Fair Play worries.
Inter and Real Betis have been linked, but both have come out to dismiss such speculation. Wage demands may prove difficult for some interested parties.
De Gea was reportedly paid £375,000 per week at United. The Reds were considering a shorter-term agreement for the keeper before settling on Onana, with whom Erik ten Hag previously worked at Ajax.
Last season, De Ge made a lot of errors that cost United points and tournament participation. Onana was brought in for his talent with the ball at his feet, but he, too, has had some wobbly moments in his first five months at Old Trafford.