Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea is aware of the ongoing rumours linking him with Real Madrid, but has insisted he is happy at Old Trafford.
The Spain international, who joined United from Atletico Madrid for a reported fee in the region of £17.8 million, has established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in Europe over the past two seasons.
Although De Gea initially struggled with the physicality of the English Premier League, he is now one of United’s most consistent week-to-week performers.
Recent reports have suggested Real Madrid are contemplating a move for the Spain No. 1, whose current contract with United is set to expire in June 2016, but the 24-year-old remains happy in Manchester.
“It is difficult to say whether a bid will be made by Real, because of all the rumours that appear in the press,” De Gea told La Sexta.
“In Manchester I feel wanted. If you took seriously what is written about you, you’d almost think you’re going to a thousand clubs.
“So the best you can do is pay attention to where you are. I feel very loved by Man United.”
When asked if United brought in Victor Valdes, who is currently training with the club, to replace him, De Gea said: “Yes, my contract runs out in 2016. But they didn’t sign him for that.
“Victor had a difficult injury, he had a bad time and the boss knows him well and has given him the opportunity to recover there.
“Yes, Victor is training over in Manchester — he’s still not 100 percent after his injury. When he is fully fit he will start to train with us. He’s still not training in goal with us. From time to time he comes out with the goalkeeping coach, but very little still.
“Van Gaal knows him well because he gave Victor his debut at Barca and has a special affection for him and, whenever possible, we have to help where we can.
“Football is cruel at times, it’s difficult. When things go well you’re very good and when they go badly… well, it’s awful.”
De Gea has kept three clean sheets in 11 Premier League matches this season.
Stoke rule out Arnautovic sale
Stoke City chairman Peter Coates has insisted the club will not sell Feyenoord target Marko Arnautovic during the January transfer window.
The Austria international, 25, joined the Potters for a bargain fee of £2 million in the summer of 2013.
After impressing last term, Arnautovic has lost his starting-place to Victor Moses.
Increasing speculation has suggested the 25-year-old could be allowed to join Feyenoord on loan in January, but Coates has swiftly rubbished such reports.
“He has been an important player for us and remains so,” Coates said.
“I don’t imagine we would even think about releasing him, even if there was an offer in January.
“Bear in mind we have got the FA Cup to come then and there is also the chance of injuries.
“You have to have enough players, particularly at that time of year, and Marko remains a fine player in whom we still have very high hopes.
“When he has come in he has done well this season and we have all seen what a wonderful player he can be.”
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