SPANISH GOALKEEPER DAVID de Gea has agreed a new four-year deal at Manchester United.

After one of the longest transfer sagas of the summer, the 24-year-old was on the verge of joining Real Madrid on deadline day before a delay in documentation saw the move scuppered.

The two-time Player of the Year looked set to leave on a free transfer at the end of this season, but the club has today announced that his contract has been extended to at least 2019 with the option of another year.

I am absolutely delighted David has signed a new contract,” said manager Louis van Gaal. “He is one of the best goalkeepers in world football. I am very pleased that he will be part of the team for many years to come.

“David made a very important contribution to our performance last season and he has been the club’s Player of the Year for the last two seasons. He is a popular player who is keen to learn and enhance his game. At such a young age for a goalkeeper, he has many years ahead of him.”

De Gea added: “I am delighted to be starting this new chapter in my United career. I have always enjoyed playing with these great players in front of our fantastic fans.

“Manchester United is a special club and Old Trafford is an ideal place for me to continue to develop my career. I’m looking forward to putting a difficult summer behind me and concentrating on working hard to improve and help my teammates to be successful.”

De Gea has yet to feature for United this season but could now be set to start against Liverpool at Old Trafford tomorrow.

Originally published at 12.15

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