David de Gea has confirmed he will not be extending his stay at Manchester United amid claims the Red Devils are targeting Everton's Jordan Pickford.
The Spaniard's 12-year association with the Old Trafford club comes to an end after his contract expired at the end of July. It was claimed that United were looking to continue dialogue with the goalkeeper following the end of his deal with a view to extending on reduced terms.
However, the shot-stopper has confirmed that he is now a free agent. In recent days, the 32-year-old has posted a series of tweets which appear cryptic to describe the situation that is unravelling in Manchester.
The Manchester Evening News reported previously in May that there were doubts over De Gea's status as number-one goalkeeper with senior figures wanting to move the former Atletico Madrid-man on.
EXCLUSIVE: Duncan Ferguson on Everton interview, Carlo Ancelotti texts and knowing his time was up
READ MORE: Who could be next to leave Everton after Ellis Simms sale
In a post on Twitter, De Gea confirmed his exit, writing: "I just wanted to send this farewell message to all Manchester United supporters.
"I would like to express my unwavering gratitude and appreciation for the love from the last 12 years. We’ve achieved a lot since my dear Sir Alex Ferguson brought me to this club. I took incredible pride everytime I pulled on this shirt, to lead the team, to represent this institution, the biggest club in the world was an honour only bestows upon a few lucky footballers.
"It’s been an unforgettable and successful period since I came here. I didn’t think from leaving Madrid as a young boy we would achieve what we did together.
"Now, it’s the right time to undertake a new challenge, to push myself again in new surroundings. Manchester will always be in my heart, Manchester has shaped me and will never leave me. We’ve seen it all."
With speculation surrounding their next goalkeeper, Everton's Jordan Pickford was subject to reported interest from the Red Devils. In recent months, the attention of Erik ten Hag has turned to Inter Milan's Andre Onana - after the pair's time together at Ajax.
Talks have also been held with the agent of Urawa Red Diamonds and Japan Under-21 goalie Zion Suzuki over a possible second addition between the sticks.
