Manchester United have fuelled speculation amongst fans that David de Gea could return to Old Trafford by wishing their former goalkeeper a happy birthday on social media.
De Gea, 33, spent 12 years in Manchester after originally joining United during Sir Alex Ferguson ‘s legendary tenure and established himself as one of the greatest goalkeepers in the club’s modern history before departing as a free agent in the summer.
The Spain international left the club under somewhat of a cloud after Erik ten Hag opted to go in a different direction despite months of contract talks. However, talk of a potential return to United has gathered pace in recent weeks.
Andre Onana was signed from Inter Milan as De Gea’s replacement, but his difficult start to life at Old Trafford has led to calls for United’s former No.1 to return. The fact that Onana could miss up to eight games in the New Year during the Africa Cup of Nations has only intensified those calls.
De Gea is still a free agent despite interest from the Saudi Pro League and some of Europe’s elite. When you consider that, United’s current predicament and add in the fact that the shot-stopper has been in and around Manchester with several of his old teammates in recent weeks, it’s plain to see why talk of a return has been rife.
The Sun even claimed a fortnight ago that United were keen on bringing De Gea back to the club on a short-term contract to provide cover when Onana jets off with the Cameroon national team.
De Gea offered up a cryptic response on social media shortly after said report, sending United fans into a frenzy. A return would give him a chance to say a proper farewell to the Old Trafford faithful given his abrupt departure came during the summer break.
The manner of his exit could leave him with reservations over rejoining, though, amid claims that he agreed to a substantial cut on his £375,000 a week wages only for United to withdraw their contract offer.
Ten Hag’s desire for a goalkeeper more comfortable playing out from the back led him to Onana, but the former Ajax shot-stopper has been less than convincing.
He has, though, appeared to turn a corner in recent weeks after saving a dramatic last-gasp penalty in the Champions League against FC Copenhagen and kept his fifth clean sheet of the season in the 1-0 win over Fulham on Saturday.
