United braced for new David De Gea bid from Real Madrid

Real Madrid are used to getting what they want, and Real Madrid want David de Gea. Contrary to reports earlier this summer that the Spanish giants’ interest in the ‘keeper had cooled, new stories have emerged today that say United are expecting a renewed push from Madrid for De Gea’s signature. Given the outlets involved, this seems like the brief has actually come from United, which is a little weird, unless the end game here is for United to look as though they’ve triumphed against Madrid again. In any case, with De Gea nowhere near the end of his contract, and with mad transfer fees flying around this summer (Kyle Walker cost how much?!), the Reds are in a strong negotiating position. Both club and player are said to be relaxed about the situation. I’m sure that’s the last we’ll hear of that, then.

Sam Johnstone - a good goalkeeper with no future at Manchester United - has rejoined Aston Villa on a season-long loan. With Joel Pereira highly rated by Mourinho, and Sergio Romero now a less calamitous presence than he once was, Johnstone will likely move on permanently next summer, as there is no obvious path for him to United’s first team.

José Mourinho has been impressed by Luke Shaw’s commitment and application this summer, and is ready to give the England defender another chance to make the left-back spot his own. Shaw was repeatedly singled out for criticism by the manager last season, and at one point looked like he was surely on his way out this summer. But Mourinho has taken note of Shaw’s hard work to get himself fit again after a season-ending ankle injury, and remains a fan of his talent. With no new full-back signed to replace him, it seems that Shaw will get one last chance to prove himself.

Nemanja Matić is more likely to leave Chelsea this summer than he is to stay, having been left out of the club’s pre-season traveling squad. It is a strong indication that the midfielder will be allowed to leave the club, with United having been linked with the Serbian for several weeks. Unfortunately for United, Juventus are the club that are now said to be in pole position for his signature. In any case, Chelsea are likely to move quickly on negotiations now that Tiemoue Bakayoko is on the brink of signing for them.