Manchester United: David de Gea silent on €40m release clause in new contract

David de Gea has refused to deny the existence of a release clause in his new Manchester United contract. The 24-year-old was on the brink of a move to Real Madrid in the final hours of the summer transfer window until the move to the Spanish capital broke down just before the deadline, with both clubs blaming each other for the collapse.

United manager Louis van Gaal dropped the Spain international from his first-team plans throughout August while his future at the club was in doubt but the goalkeeper was welcomed back into the fold once the transfer window closed and nine days later signed a new four-year contract at Old Trafford.

But no sooner had the contract been signed did the Sun suggest a release clause of €40m (£29.7m, $45.6m) had been inserted into the deal, allowing De Gea to get his move next summer and ensuring United get a decent price for their number one.

The former Atletico Madrid shot stopper was quizzed on the existence of the clause following Spain's 1-0 win over Ukraine on Monday 12 October but told reporters only his agent Jorge Mendes could answer their questions. "You should ask Jorge that question," De Gea said, AS reports. "He is the one who pays attention to those details."

De Gea won widespread praise for his performance in the 1-0 win over Ukraine in Kiev where Mario Gaspar's winner ensured La Roja were not made to rue Cesc Fabregas's missed penalty.

The United goalkeeper made a string of vital saves either side of the full-back's goal and feels he is currently in the best form of his life. In quotes reported by Marca, he said: "I have to compete to the max. It's true that I had a bit of luck today, but I did well and I've got to keep it up. I'm in the best form of my career."