Everton star 'lined up if David De Gea moves to Real Madrid - and Ronaldo could be used as makeweight'

Manchester United goal keeper David De Gea [Photo: Courtesy]

Manchester United are preparing for life without Spanish stopper David De Gea as they keep watch over Everton's Jordan Pickford to replace him.

De Gea has been a long-term target for Real Madrid, and it is expected that the 27-year-old keeper could be making the switch this summer.

That would pave the way for United to move for 23-year-old Pickford, who has been in good form since his transfer to the Toffees.

The Sun report that United would have to pay significantly more than the £30 million Everton paid in the summer to land Pickford, with a touted figure of £50 million likely to persuade the Merseyside club to self

That would not be a problem for Red Devils boss Jose Mourinho, who could use the cash from any transfer involving De Gea to bankroll the deal.

Mourinho has done well to hold on to De Gea for so long, but is thought to be resigned to losing their star keeper.

The Express have reported that former United star Cristiano Ronaldo could be used as a makeweight in any kind of deal for De Gea.

That would not be a problem for Red Devils boss Jose Mourinho, who could use the cash from any transfer involving De Gea to bankroll the deal.

Mourinho has done well to hold on to De Gea for so long, but is thought to be resigned to losing their star keeper.

The Express have reported that former United star Cristiano Ronaldo could be used as a makeweight in any kind of deal for De Gea.

De Gea has made quite impressive performance in the current premier league campaign. The Spaniard has kept 15 clean sheets and he is on course to clinch a golden glove. De Gea has been strong in between the sticks helping Man United to concede fewer goals. Chelsea’s Thibaut Courtois follows in second with 12 clean sheets as Manchester City’s Ederson comes at third position.