Schmeichel has hit out at Man United for their handling of David De Gea ’s transfer saga

Peter Schmeichel has hit out at Manchester United for their handling of David De Gea ’s transfer saga by branding the situation ‘a joke’.

De Gea is yet play this season with manager Louis van Gaal choosing to omit the Spanish goalkeeper until after Tuesday’s transfer deadline.

The Dutchman says he will reconsider if the 24-year-old is still at the club next week, report the Manchester Evening News.

But, with just one year left on his Old Trafford contract, the expectation is that De Gea will move to Real Madrid next summer if he doesn’t get his move to the Bernabeu in the next five days

Schmeichel is still hopeful De Gea could sign a new deal at United.

But he has blasted the club for how they’ve handled the situation.

He said: “I hope that we’ll see him. I hope that some kind of resolution is found within the next couple of days.

“I would love David de Gea to commit to Manchester United, you know, and sign a new five-year contract. He has been absolutely outstanding in the last two seasons.

“But I also understand when Real Madrid - who are from his home town - when they come calling, of course you want to go back there.

“I think everyone would think like that so I’ve got great understanding. I’m very, very thankful for what he’s done for Manchester United and I would hold nothing against him if he moves on.

“But I want the situation to be resolved. I think it’s an absolute joke that it’s carried on into the season.”