Football pundit Paul Merson has raised the possibility of a sensational swap deal involving David de Gea and Thibaut Courtois.
David de Gea and Thibaut Courtois Swap Deal
The former Arsenal midfielder made the bold claim whilst giving his opinion on Sky Sports ‘The Debate’. The pundit predicted that a swap deal involving Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea and his opposite number at Real Madrid, Thibaut Courtois, can’t be ruled out.
The ex-Villa man said:
“We have seen over the last few years that he wanted to play for Real Madrid. That didn’t happen, and they got Courtois, but I could see De Gea going to Real and Courtois going the other way with a lot of money as well. I think that will work.
“I don’t know if he wants to be there. Man Utd are a million miles away from Man City and it isn’t a good place to be.”
De Gea has been an integral part at Manchester United since he joined The Red Devils from Atletico Madrid in 2011. Courtois joined Real Madrid last summer from Chelsea, after citing a need to be closer to his children. The Belgian has also represented Atletico, following a three year loan in which he acted as De Gea’s replacement.
Neither keeper has been in great form this season. De Gea has shipped 21 Premier league goals in 13 appearances, keeping only two clean sheets. Courtois has struggled since his move to the Bernabeu, conceding 18-goals in 11-La Liga games. The ex-Genk stopper has managed to keep a total of three clean sheets, but disastrously conceded five times during his El Clasico debut that saw Barcelona run out 5-1 winners.
Dreams Can Come True
Such a move would be an absolute dream for Real supporters, but in contrast, United fans would not be pleased. De Gea is a fans favourite at Old Trafford, and despite constant speculation, he has stayed loyal. Chelsea fans would also have something to say after the manner in which the big Belgian vacated Stamford Bridge. He has been a target of Blues fans frustrations as it is. A move of this magnitude would raise even more red mist in West London.
Real-istic Possibility
Anything can happen in football. De Gea has always been Real’s first-choice. Jose Mourinho would not want to lose the Spaniard, but a reunion with Courtois would go some way to softening the blow. United have recently activated the remaining one year on De Gea’s contract. However, a new contract is yet to be signed and sealed, and it’s anyone’s guess what might happen in the next 18-months.
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