Transfer Centre

Bayern Munich to rival Saudi Arabian clubs for David de Gea?

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 30 July 2023

Bayern Munich to rival Saudi clubs for David de Gea?

Bayern Munich could reignite their interest in David de Gea after discussions over a possible deal for Brentford's David Raya broke down, according to a report.

Bayern Munich could reportedly reignite their interest in free agent David de Gea after discussions over a possible deal for Brentford's David Raya broke down.

The Bundesliga champions had been in talks over a move for Raya, but a potential deal for the Spain international is now off, with Arsenal believed to have risen to the head of the queue for his services.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Bayern contacted De Gea's representatives 'one week ago' to discuss a possible switch for the Spaniard.

The Munich giants were then in discussions over a move for Raya, but the breakdown could lead to Thomas Tuchel's side reigniting their interest in De Gea, who is available on a free transfer this summer following his release from Manchester United at the end of June.

Romano claims that the 32-year-old also has 'two important bids from Saudi', with the stopper potentially becoming the latest big-name player to move to the Saudi Pro League.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag with goalkeeper David de Gea on October 30, 2022 © Reuters

De Gea represented Man United between 2011 and 2023, making 545 appearances for the club in all competitions, keeping 190 clean sheets in the process.

The Spaniard was again the English club's number one during the 2022-23 campaign, making 58 appearances, keeping 25 clean sheets.

De Gea won the Golden Glove in the Premier League last season, producing 17 shut-outs in the competition, but a series of high-profile mistakes led to his exit.

There were also concerns over the Spaniard's suitability in a Erik ten Hag system due to his struggles in terms of playing out from the back.

David de Gea in action for Manchester United on August 7, 2022 © Reuters

De Gea had initially been linked with a return to Man United in the early stages of July, but the club's pursuit of Andre Onana ended his chances of earning a new deal at Old Trafford.

Onana has now become the club's number one stopper following his arrival from Inter Milan, but there is uncertainty surrounding the futures of fellow Red Devils goalkeepers Dean Henderson and Tom Heaton.

De Gea won the Premier League, FA Cup, two EFL Cups and the Europa League during his time at Old Trafford, and it is thought that he was determined to stay with the club this summer.

A switch to Saudi is likely to be the more lucrative option for the goalkeeper this summer, but there have been suggestions that he is keen to remain in European football at this stage of his career.