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David de Gea opens up on incredible failed transfer to Real Madrid

Former Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has commented on his sensational failed move to Real Madrid in the summer of 2015.

United icon

De Gea joined United from Atletico Madrid in 2011 and played 545 games for the Red Devils before leaving in the summer of 2023.

He is seventh on the list of all-time appearance makers for the club and he is the non-British player with the most matches played for United.

The Spaniard impressed in the Red Devils’ shirt, making numerous incredible reflex saves and winning the Premier League, FA Cup, Europa League and Carabao cup twice.

It could have been so different

De Gea’s story could have been very different though as he was on the cusp of signing for Real Madrid in the summer of 2015 on deadline day.

In the final hours of the window, United agreed a deal with Real Madrid that would see Keylor Navis move to Old Trafford in exchange.

Nonetheless, the necessary documents never made it on time as there was incredibly a problem with the fax machine sending the paperwork and the deal never happened due to the missed deadline.

Speaking to Italian media Cronache Di Spogliatoio (via Madriduniversal.com) the now Fiorentina keeper gave his two cents on the matter.

He stated, “my failed transfer to Real Madrid? At the end of my career, I will talk about what happened. In the end, it didn’t happen and I think some things happen for a reason.”

The Spaniard added, “I stayed in Manchester and I was happy.”

Missed opportunity

Whilst United fans will be grateful the Spain international ended up staying so long at Old Trafford, there may be a tinge of regret for De Gea.

The Red Devils did win some trophies during his time at the club but their achievements pale into insignificance in comparison to Madrid who would win the Champions League in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2022 and 2024.