This past summer, David De Gea almost became the keeper at the Bernabeu. But after Real Madrid failed to file the necessary paperwork on time, the 24-year-old, instead has signed a new four year contract with Manchester United. He is now set to be with the team at least until 2019, and has an option to extend that tenure a year further.

"I am delighted to be starting this new chapter in my United career," De Gea said. I have always enjoyed playing with these great players in front of our fantastic fans. Manchester United is a special club Old Trafford is an ideal place for me to continue to develop my career. I'm looking forward to putting a difficult summer behind me and concentrating on working hard to improve and jelp my teammates to be successful."

De Gea's previous contract was set to expire next summer, and had he not signed a new deal, it could have opened talks in January for a free-transfer move to Madrid for next summer. As noted by BBC.com, De Gea has not played for United this season as manager Louis Van Gaal did not feel his keeper could focus with Real keen on acquiring him.

"I am absolutely delighted that David has signed a new contract," Van Gaal said. "He is one of the best goalkeepers in world football. I am very pleased that he will be part of the team for many years to come. David made a very important contribution to our performance last season and has been the club's Player of the Year for the last two seasons. He is a popular player who is keen to learn and enhance his game. At such a young age for a goalkeeper, he has many years ahead of him."

De Gea joined United in 2011. He has since registered 175 appearances for the club, helping them win the Premier League title in 2013 while earning two Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year awards.