Manchester United identify probable David de Gea replacement

Manchester United have reportedly earmarked Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Mathew Ryan as a probable replacement for David de Gea, should the Spaniard continue with his contract standoff with the club.

The Spain international presently has just eight months remaining on his existing deal but the club have the option of extending his stay for another 12 months.

Despite this, there remains a concern that De Gea may consider an exit in the quest to win more silverware and according to The Sun, United are said to have already started the search for a suitable successor.

It is added that Ryan, formerly of Valencia, is the prime target on their radar after his impressive performances for Brighton since the start of the previous campaign.

The Australia international is presently contracted to Brighton until June 2022 and Brighton may be tempted to sell, if they are able to make a significant profit on the £5.2m fee paid for his services last year.