Manchester United are optimistic about the prospect of signing Inter Milan goalkeeper Andre Onana to replace David de Gea.
Onana, 27, is United's principal goalkeeping target and De Gea confirmed he has left the club for good on Saturday.
United sources insist no contract was ever formally offered to De Gea, 32, despite months of discussions. De Gea's contract expired last week and United initially wanted to hold face-to-face discussions.
The Manchester Evening News reported on Friday United are at a more advanced stage to sign a new goalkeeper than a striker.
Sources say a deal for Onana is not imminent and a compromise is required on Inter's asking price for the former Ajax 'keeper but positive discussions have been held.
Figures at United claim the club and De Gea reflected on his situation after the end of last season and decided it was the right time to part ways.
The MEN revealed in May there were doubts over De Gea's No.1 status at United next season and senior figures at the club wanted to move on from the Spaniard. United started exploring options to sign a new first-choice 'keeper last month.
Although Dean Henderson is still under contract at United, he wants to leave and Nottingham Forest have informed him of their wish to sign him permanently.
Henderson, 26, spent last season on loan at Forest and is recovering from thigh surgery. The England international expects to rejoin Forest.
Ten Hag and Henderson met in person for the first time at United's Carrington training complex this week after having little dialogue last season.
