Reports from Spain claim that Barcelona’s goalkeeping sensation Marc-Andre ter Stegen could replace David de Gea, who is expected to join Real Madrid in the upcoming summer transfer window.
As per Don Balon, Manchester United head coach Jose Mourinho is keen to secure a proper replacement for David de Gea, who is arguably the best keeper in the world. Barcelona’s Marc-Andre ter Stegen has been identified as a perfect candidate to replace the Spaniard.
In fact, the Red Devils are even willing to launch £89m offer for the highly rated German international this summer.
While David de Gea has been transformed into a world-class goalkeeper at Manchester United in recent years, Marc-Andre ter Stegen hasn’t been far off either, producing some world-class performances since joining Barcelona a few years ago.
This season, in particular, the former Gladbach man has been one of the most impressive keepers in the Spanish La Liga, which has quickly escalated him as one of the most highly rated keepers in world football at the moment.
Manchester United, who are currently second in the Premier League table, have had problems throughout the course of the season, particularly in the defensive department. Even though the Red Devils boast the second strongest defence in the league this season, much of the credit should be given to the shot-stopping expertise of David de Gea.
In defence, the likes of Phil Jones and Chris Smalling have been mediocre for a major chunk of the season but thanks to the Spanish international, Manchester United have conceded only 26 goals this campaign. As we go into the final few matches of the season, de Gea has already kept most clean sheets whilst also making third-most saves in the league this season, which reflects his importance in this Manchester United roster.
However, with Barcelona’s Marc-Andre ter Stegen, the Manchester giants will have no difficulties replacing their prized goalkeeper. Even though the German international comes nowhere near to the same level as the United goalkeeper, ter Stegen has already shown immense potential and also backed it up with consistent performances for Barcelona over the years.
Highly touted as Germany’s long-term replacement for Manuel Neuer, ter Stegen has everything a coach needs from this keeper, especially his abilities with the ball. The 25-year old can add another dimension to Manchester United’s build-up play with his highly accurate passes and ball playing qualities, meaning he will have no problems in leaving his line.
Currently contracted to FC Barcelona till 2022, it might prove to be tough for Man United to lure ter Stegen to Old Trafford this summer but considering the potential sale of David de Gea, the Red Devils might just earn enough to fund the lucrative transfer of this highly talented goalkeeper.
