Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag has reiterated that he is not prepared to enter discussions over the future of goalkeeper David de Gea at the present time.
Having spent 11 years at Old Trafford, De Gea recently moved past the 500-mark with regards to appearances having enjoyed a solid campaign since Ten Hag's arrival.
The Spain international had already seen off the challenge of Dean Henderson, seemingly establishing himself as the undisputed number one going forward.
However, the 31-year-old's contract is due to expire at the end of the season, and talk remains over whether United will offer the long-serving stopper fresh terms.
With United having the option of activating a one-year clause in De Gea's contract, there is no prospect of De Gea being allowed to depart on a free transfer in 2023.
© Reuters
Nevertheless, the relevant parties are likely to want clarity moving forward, particularly with United only five months into a new era under Ten Hag.
However, when quizzed on the situation after Saturday's 1-1 draw with Chelsea, Ten Hag insisted that he wants De Gea to focus his attention to on-the-pitch matters.
As quoted by The Sun, Ten Hag said: "We didn't make a decision on him but what I can say is that I am really happy with David de Gea as a keeper.
"His first two performances of the season were not his best performances but after you see he brings us a lot for the defensive department, gives stability.
© Reuters
"And, as a person, I like him, I can really cooperate with him really well but first we go to the winter and then we will talk about how deal with such situations.
"In this moment we only think about performing, we have a lot of games to go, so I don't want to get that interfered by talks. We have to focus on football and performances, not on negotiating. That's what we have to do now."
United still have six matches to play before the World Cup, starting with their Europa League fixture with Sheriff Tiraspol on Thursday night.
In terms of Premier League games, the Red Devils face West Ham United, Aston Villa and Fulham before the break for the World Cup in Qatar.
While De Gea would like to be part of the Spain squad for that tournament, the 45-cap international has not represented his country since 2020.
Darren Plant
