Published: 18:26 EDT, 23 July 2024 | Updated: 18:26 EDT, 23 July 2024

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David de Gea was ready to make a return to Manchester United before Erik ten Hag was kept in place as manager for a third season, according to reports.

The Spaniard was previously United's No.1 during Ten Hag's first campaign in charge but a series of high-profile errors between the sticks eventually led to him being replaced.

A sour end to his 12-year relationship at Old Trafford saw his contract look set to be extended before being allowed to expire by the club who eventually decided not to offer him a new deal.

Andre Onana was later signed as his replacement from Inter Milan as De Gea was left without a club and found himself as a free agent for the first time in his career.

However, the Cameroonian's struggles during his first few months as United's No.1 prompted calls from fans for De Gea to return after his years of stunning saves saw him hailed as one of the world's best shot-stoppers.

David de Gea [pictured] was ready to make a return to Manchester United before Erik ten Hag was kept in place as manager

Despite being the subject of interest from top European and Saudi Arabian sides, De Gea decided to take a season out of football and wanted to return to United, as reported by The Athletic.

The 33-year-old was left upset by the actions of both Ten Hag and former football director John Murtough who oversaw his unceremonious departure and would only return to his former club if they were both no longer there.

Murtough was removed from his post while Ten hag looked set for the axe after the club's worst-ever Premier League season that saw them finish eight in the table with a negative goal difference, but was saved by winning the FA Cup.

De Gea has maintained his sharpness by undergoing private goalkeeping sessions

Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS sporting team later decided the Dutchman was the best person to lead the club forward following their new investment and interrupted his summer holiday in Ibiza to hold showdown talks.

He then agreed a one-year contract extension, prompting De Gea to re-evaluate his plans about securing a dream reunion with his former United colleagues.

The goalkeeper has maintained his sharpness by undergoing private goalkeeping sessions - often sharing clips on social media - and has been presented with offers from Saudi Arabia, USA, and Italy.

De Gea recently posted a cryptic hourglass figure on social media that could hint he is about to unveil his next destination after making 545 appearances for United after originally joining under Sir Alex Ferguson's reign.

Andre OnanaDavid De Gea