After a disappointing start to their Europa League campaign, Manchester United will be desperate for their first win of the competition on Thursday when they take on Moldovan outfit Sheriff Tiraspol.
Erik ten Hag has chosen a strong traveling squad for the contest and with no Premier League football for two weeks, there is a chance the Dutchman may not rotate as much as he did last time out.
At the pre-match press conference, the former Ajax coach was accompanied by goalkeeper David de Gea, who seemed focused on the job at hand.
De Gea’s problems
The Spaniard did not enjoy the best of starts to the season as his mistakes led to a 0-4 thrashing at the hands of Brentford.
Manchester United want Atletico Madrid and Slovenia goalkeeper Jan Oblak, 29, to replace current number one David de Gea. (Footuex Toys)#mufc
– Manchester United fans (@United4fans) September 15, 2022
Ten Hag even had to change his style of play to accommodate the Spaniard who is not the strongest with the ball at his feet.
From the Liverpool match onwards, De Gea was seen kicking long instead of playing from behind. His long passing also continues to be erratic, which is why Martin Dubravka was signed from Newcastle United.
According to French outlet Jeunes Footeux, the Dutch boss is not convinced that the Spanish international will be able to cope with his demands in the future.
This means that United are looking for a world-class alternative with De Gea’s current contract running until 2023. The former Atletico Madrid goalkeeper wants to stay at United for the long term, but Ten Hag could have other plans.
Oblak the savior?
One goalkeeper who has long been linked to the Red Devils has been Jan Oblak. The Slovenian’s contract with Atletico Madrid runs until 2023 and United could come into action once he completes his contract.
If the deal goes through, “Man United would be willing to offer him a salary of 18 million euros per season, almost double his current salary,” the article continues.
United are not the only suitor after the goalkeeper, as Paris Saint-Germain also have an interest in the French club not being happy with Gianluigi Donnarumma’s performances.
Oblak has long been considered one of the best goalkeepers in world football and it would be an absolute blow if United were able to get the 29-year-old.
There’s the added question of what will happen to Dean Henderson, who has performed well on loan. For now, Ten Hag needs De Gea to be on top of his game and try to adapt to his methods this season.
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