Villarreal have put David De Gea at the top of their wish list to strengthen their goalkeeping position this summer. The Spaniard belongs to Fiorentina and has a contract until 2028 – but the dream of Champions League football in his home country could make him consider a move.
Villarreal, who are also checking out the possibility of getting their fantastic goalscorer Alexander Sørloth back from Atletico Madrid, finished 3rd in La Liga last season and are now ready for the Champions League. – David de Gea’s club ended up in 15th place in Serie A, far away from playing in Europe.
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Experience and weight behind the goal
Villarreal will play in the Champions League in the autumn, and the club believes De Gea’s experience, authority and knowledge of Spanish football will be perfect for the project. After Diego Conde was sold to Real Betis, Villarreal have a vacant room in the squad – and De Gea is the name they want.
“He’s used to pressure, he’s played in the biggest games in the world, and he knows the league. That is exactly what we need, say sources in the club.
But the price can be a problem
Fiorentina recently extended De Gea’s contract until 2028, and the Italians have no need to sell him cheaply. Villarreal must therefore both negotiate with Fiorentina – and find a solution that suits their own finances.
De Gea is 35 years old and has a high salary. For Villarreal, it is important to avoid an overly expensive investment, while securing a goalkeeper of the highest class. The negotiations will therefore be crucial for the rest of the transfer window.
Champions League as a lure
The biggest card Villarreal has to play out is precisely the Champions League. For De Gea, a return to Spain will give him the opportunity to play in Europe’s most prestigious tournament – and at the same time be the first goalkeeper at an ambitious club.
De Gea has not publicly commented on his future, but sources close to the player suggest that he is thriving in Florence. Still, an offer from Villarreal – with Champions League games and a leading role – can be hard to refuse.
A complicated but exciting negotiation
The transition requires patience and discretion. Villarreal must not only come to an agreement with Fiorentina, but also adapt De Gea’s salary to the club’s financial framework. Several parties must make an effort to make an agreement a reality.
As of today, there is no official bid or deal – but the interest is real, and Villarreal have already indicated that De Gea is their main target.
In short:
- Villarreal want David De Gea as new first-choice goalkeeper
- De Gea belongs to Fiorentina and has a contract until 2028
- Champions League games are Villarreal’s main argument
- The club must both negotiate with Fiorentina – and adjust the salary
- No formal offer has been presented yet, but the interest is concrete
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