In a surprising turn of events, David De Gea’s anticipated move to Bayern Munich has been called off. Recent reports suggest that the German champions have cooled their interest in the released Manchester United goalkeeper.
The change in Bayern’s plans comes as they receive a positive update on the recovery of their own shot-stopper, Manuel Neuer, who is expected to make a comeback in the next few weeks.
FC Bayern’s decision not to sign David De Gea was confirmed by Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg via Twitter. It appears that coach Tuchel vetoed the transfer, taking into consideration the imminent return of Manuel Neuer.
Talks did take place between De Gea and Bayern, with the player showing his willingness to join the club. However, those discussions have now come to an end.
Since the expiration of his contract with Manchester United in June, De Gea has been without a club. As a free agent, the former Spanish number one goalkeeper attracted interest from several Saudi Pro League clubs.
Nevertheless, it seemed likely that he would end up in Bavaria. Unfortunately, various obstacles impeded the deal, primarily De Gea’s wage demands, which were considered too high for Bayern.
Bayern had found themselves in a goalkeeper crisis, especially after Neuer’s backup Yann Sommer left for Inter Milan to replace Andre Onana.
Neuer himself suffered a right leg fracture during a skiing accident in December, resulting in complex surgeries and a prolonged recovery process. However, Bayern’s head coach, Tuchel, now expects the 37-year-old Neuer to return to action in the following weeks.
With the move to Bayern Munich falling through, David De Gea will have to wait for another opportunity to find a new club amid the ongoing football season.
Despite being Manchester United’s top earner before his departure, the Spanish goalkeeper has faced setbacks in securing a new team.
Real Madrid, for instance, opted to sign Chelsea’s Kepa Arrizabalaga on loan following Thibault Courtois’ knee injury, leaving De Gea without an immediate option.