Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has expressed fresh optimism in keeping goalkeeper David De Gea at Old Trafford.
De Gea, who was named Manchester United's player of the season for the second straight campaign, has been a stalwart in net for Van Gaal's side, but has been linked to a move to Real Madrid in the summer, despite a lucrative contract offer in hand from United.
Just five days ago, Van Gaal expressed he felt powerless to persuade the Spanish international from leaving. Friday, however, saw the Dutch coach with renewed hope.
"I believe still that David De Gea shall stay," said Van Gaal, who feels De Gea's relationship with the Man United fans could be vital in the final decision.
"I think he shall have a very difficult solution," the 61-year-old said in a news conference. "He is loved by the fans, he loves the environment. When he goes he loses that. It's a difficult decision, because he is not making the decision."
De Gea's contract runs out in 2016.