Man Utd ‘identify’ David de Gea’s replacement as Spain teammate

Manchester United are considering replacing David de Gea with Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, according to the Mirror. The 24-year-old has been in fine form this season.

The Red Devils are on the hunt for a replacement for De Gea, with his contract at Old Trafford set to expire in the summer. They do have the option to extend his deal, though they are thought to be looking to the future with a new arrival in between the sticks.

Sanchez joined Brighton’s academy from Levante back in 2013 and has taken his opportunity as their first choice goalkeeper superbly since making his first team debut two years ago. The Spaniard has been one of the Premier League’s best shotstoppers in recent seasons, making 77 appearances and claiming 25 cleans sheets as the Seagulls have become one of England’s dark horses. Sanchez’s great form earned him his first international cap as he featured in Spain’s World Cup qualifier against Georgia last September. He hasn’t made another appearance since, however has made their squad for the World Cup ahead of De Gea.

Having already lost the likes of Graham Potter, Yves Bissouma and Marc Cucurella, Brighton now face losing Sanchez with United hot on their tails. With the south coast outfit understandably reluctant to sell, TEAMtalk have reported that they will demand over £35 million if they are to part ways with the goalkeeper - with his contract not expiring until 2025. Brighton can certainly take the driving seat in any potential negotiations, however they will face increasing pressure to sell, with the Red Devils not the only club interested in his signature.

According to reports, Potter is also keen to reunite with the 24-year-old at Chelsea after uncertainty over whether Kepa Arrizabalaga and Edouard Mendy are suitable for his style of play. The former Swansea City boss joined Brighton in 2019 and was the one to give him his opportunity in the first team following a loan spell with Rochdale. The Blues could definitely have an advantage over United with Potter’s relationship to Sanchez, while he could also prefer to remain down south if he is to leave the Amex Stadium.