EXCLUSIVE
David de Gea finally set for Real Madrid transfer after dream move from Manchester United failed eight years ago
David de Gea is in advanced talks with Real Madrid over signing on a free transfer this summer, talkSPORT understands.
The Spaniard has been made a free agent after he was released by Manchester United earlier this summer when his contract expired.
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It ended 12 years at Old Trafford where he made 545 appearances for the Red Devils.
But the 32-year-old is now on the brink of signing for Real Madrid on a free transfer, talkSPORT understands.
It comes hours after Thibaut Courtois was ruled out for a lengthy spell after rupturing his ACL in training on Thursday morning.
It had Real scrambling for a replacement with days to go before the new LaLiga campaign begins but it now appears that De Gea is set to finally sign for Los Blancos, eight years after an initial transfer failed.
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In 2015, Real Madrid and United had agreed on a transfer for the goalkeeper.
However, in controversial circumstances, a faulty fax machine meant that the necessary forms did not arrive on time.
And with the deadline creeping over midnight, it meant that the transfer fell through.
Real Madrid were left incensed by United, who they accused of sabotaging the transfer.
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But when the next summer transfer window rolled on, the Spanish giants were ready to look elsewhere.
Kiko Casilla was signed from Espanyol, though he only proved to be suitable as a back-up until Courtois was bought from Chelsea.
Over the last five years, the Belgian has become one of the best goalkeepers in the world.
But his latest injury has forced Real into the transfer market where they were linked with Kepa Arrizabalaga, looking to raid Chelsea again.
However, a free transfer for De Gea has proved too enticing and all parties are moving toward an agreement.
While the ex-United star's stock might have decreased over the last year or so, there is no doubting the ability that De Gea has.
Many might argue that he is the best keeper the Red Devils have had in the Premier League era.
And no one can dispute the fact he is a United legend.
At the age of 32, he is certainly not over the hill in terms of goalkeeping ages and could become a key part of the squad at the Bernabeu.
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