Revealed: David de Gea’s wage demands after 12 months as a free agent – with ex-Man Utd goalkeeper’s search for a new club narrowed to one destination

The former Spain international walked away from Old Trafford in the summer of 2023 as his contract came to an end. United found themselves moving in a different direction to their four-time winner of their Player of the Year award – with Cameroonian keeper Andre Onana being drafted in.

De Gea has been linked with clubs around the world since then, from the United States to Turkey, but no deal has been done. The 33-year-old is now closing in on a return to action, but has limited options to consider.

According to TEAMtalk, teams in Italy – such as Genoa and Fiorentina – have been unable to meet De Gea’s salary demands. The same applies to clubs in Spain, with the Spaniard reportedly looking to earn between £4.2 million and £5m ($6m) annually – which equates to £80,000 to £96,000-per week.

The only sides that can afford that kind of deal operate in the Saudi Pro League. Al-Shabab are said to have entered into negotiations with De Gea, along with another unnamed team. Nothing is advanced at this stage, but the ex-United star is expected to join Cristiano Ronaldo and Co in the Middle East.