Diogo Dalot’s remarks regarding the potential replacement for David De Gea appear to align with the sentiments of the Manchester United dressing room towards the Spanish goalkeeper.
De Gea’s mistake during the match against West Ham United gifted the opposition a goal and resulted in a defeat for United, which was a significant setback to their hopes of securing a top-four finish in the Premier League.
This season, the former Atletico Madrid goalkeeper has faced criticism for his inability to possess the necessary footwork for building attacks from the back, a system that United’s coach, Erik ten Hag, is known to prefer.
According to Mirror UK, the shot-stopper’s contract expires in the summer but he had agreed to an extension, only for his manager to reportedly tell him he is not guaranteed a starting role next season.
Dalot praises Diogo Costa
According to Sports Mole, Porto’s Diogo Costa and Brentford’s David Raya are considered potential replacements, with De Gea set to be a back-up goalkeeper next season.
Man United right-back and an international teammate of Costa, Dalot has clarified his feelings about his childhood friend who could be coming to England in the summer.
“I grew up with him, he’s my friend, there’s a great relationship between us. I know perfectly well that he has the capacity to one day be a world reference,” he was translated as telling Mais Futebol.
While Dalot did not seem certain the move to Manchester United would materialise, he believes Costa would be a big-name player where he goes.
“I don’t know if he’ll be at Manchester United or another big club in Europe. He shows at FC Porto that he is a differential goalkeeper and has helped the club a lot. If he continues there, I’ll be extremely happy. If he leaves, I hope he has the greatest success in the world.”
United fans lament De Gea
Sports Brief also reported that United fans want De Gea out of the club after his recent string of poor performances, which have led to opposition scores.
The news of the club reportedly extending his contract was not well-received, but it has since emerged that the Spaniard is not guaranteed to start.