David de Gea has announced he is leaving Manchester United after a 12-year spell at Old Trafford.
The 32-year-old goalkeeper joined the Premier League club in 2011 and starred as their No.1 for more than a decade.
2
De Gea became a free agent on July 1 after failing to agree an extension before his contract expired.
Talks continued over a possible new deal, but the Spaniard has now confirmed he is moving on.
He said on Twitter: “I just wanted to send this farewell message to all Manchester United supporters.
“I would like to express my unwavering gratitude and appreciation for the love from the last 12 years. We’ve achieved a lot since my dear Sir Alex Ferguson brought me to this club. I took incredible pride everytime I pulled on this shirt, to lead the team, to represent this institution, the biggest club in the world was an honour only bestows upon a few lucky footballers.
“It’s been an unforgettable and successful period since I came here. I didn’t think from leaving Madrid as a young boy we would achieve what we did together.
“Now, it’s the right time to undertake a new challenge, to push myself again in new surroundings.
“Manchester will always be in my heart, Manchester has shaped me and will never leave me.
“We’ve seen it all.”
2
Man United also announced the news on their official channels, describing De Gea as a legend.
During his time at the club, the Spain international made more than 500 appearances and won a Premier League title, an FA Cup, two League Cups, three Community Shields and the UEFA Europa League.
Manager Erik ten Hag said: “It takes great quality and character to reach the level of even playing one game for Manchester United. To do it 545 times over 12 years is a special achievement, particularly in the goalkeeping position where every game puts you in the spotlight.
“To have won Player of the Year awards from both the fans and his team-mates, each on four occasions, shows the level of his performance and he will always be remembered as one of the very best goalkeepers in the history of the club.
“I am personally grateful for the 25 clean sheets he helped provide last season and his overall contribution on the pitch during my first year at the club. All the players and staff send him our very best wishes for the next phase of his outstanding career.”
talkSPORT understands the Red Devils are in advanced talks over a deal to sign goalkeeper Andre Onana from Inter Milan.
United have seen two offers pushed back but remain confident a £45million package will get the deal done.
Onana is thought to be keen on a move to Old Trafford and confirmation of De Gea’s exit suggests a transfer is likely.
