Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has demanded at least £375,000 a week to sign a new contract, according to The Sun.
What’s the word?
Speculation over De Gea’s future at Old Trafford is nothing new given that he is constantly linked with a move to Real Madrid.
The Spaniard was on the verge of moving to the Bernabeu in 2015, but since missing the transfer deadline, the 27-year-old has been committed to United.
The Sun reports that De Gea is willing to pen a new contract but wants almost double his current salary.
The publication claims that Alexis Sanchez’s arrival has persuaded the goalkeeper to push for what he believes he is worth.
According to The Mirror, the Chile international is earning £500,000 per week before tax.
Should United fall to his demands?
While the Red Devils would have been overjoyed by their ability to land Sanchez, the rumoured wages that he is earning sets a precedent.
Footballers within a club earn different salaries depending on their value to the team and global brand.
There is no doubt that De Gea is one of Jose Mourinho’s most important players as he has become a world-class keeper since moving to Old Trafford from Atletico Madrid in 2011.
While the figures being reported a ludicrous, United do not have much of a leg to stand on if they refuse to up De Gea’s wages significantly.
The Red Devils can feel safe in the knowledge that the Spaniard’s contract does not expire until the end of next season, but they cannot afford to let him get his head turned.
