Manchester United expect David de Gea to stay at club

Manchester United now expect David de Gea to stay at the club beyond the summer transfer window and have no concerns regarding the goalkeeper's professionalism should he do so.

De Gea, who is a target for Real Madrid, will be allowed to leave should Sergio Ramos come the other way but there seems little prospect of this happening at the moment.

The acquisition of Sergio Romero, Argentina's No1, is viewed as offering security should De Gea remain at United after the transfer window closes but subsequently not offer 100% commitment. However Louis van Gaal, the manager, continues to be impressed with the 24-year-old Spaniard's approach and is not unduly concerned about De Gea's ability to refocus should he need to do so.

De Gea was dropped by Van Gaal for United’s 1-0 win over Tottenham on Saturday, with Romero impressing. The manager believes Real’s interest in signing the Spaniard has caused a drop-off in De Gea’s usual standards in training and means he cannot currently be trusted to play.

After the victory over Tottenham Van Gaal confirmed he is prepared to choose De Gea again, but only after 1 September.

(Guardian service)