Reports: Real Madrid to offer two players + cash to sign Manchester United superstar

What's the rumour?

Real Madrid have long been linked with a move for Manchester United shot-stopper David De Gea and now latest reports from Spanish site Don Balon claim that the All-Whites are ready to offer Mateo Kovacic, Keylor Navas and cash to sign the Spanish goalkeeper.

Currently one of the best goalkeepers in the world, David De Gea has a contract with United until 2019. According to Daily Star's translation of the report, Real are set to make a huge offer for United's 'number 1' with Florentino Perez ready to include the likes of Keylor Navas and Mateo Kovacic in order to make negotiations easy with the Premier League giants.

In case you didn't know...

Future galactico?

Real Madrid were very close to signing the Spaniard in 2015, but the move fell through at the last minute. In the two years since 2015, De Gea with his stunning performances for United, has quickly cemented his reputation as one of the best goalkeepers in the world.

With another Real Madrid target, Kepa Arrizabalaga recently extending his contract at Athletic Bilbao, it seems like Madrid have once again turned their attention towards the 27-year-old former Atletico Madrid goalkeeper.

The heart of the matter

While Keylor Navas has been a consistent performer for Madrid over the last two years, the report states that Madrid are now looking for an upgrade. On the other hand, Kovacic has struggled for regular playing time this season and with Carrick's career coming to an end, United might be tempted to take a punt on the talented Croatian midfielder.

Also, De Gea, who has previously played for Atletico Madrid, will not need much time to settle in the Spanish league and a move to Santiago Bernabeu might well come to fruition in the summer transfer window.

Rumour rating/probability

5/10

While Madrid have long been credited with an interest in David De Gea, the idea of them letting Kovacic go so easily is a bit hard to believe. With Modric on the wrong side of 30, Kovacic could be an ideal long-term replacement for the Madrid 'number 10'.

Also, Don Balon is not the most reliable of outfits and some of their rumours should definitely be taken with a pinch of salt.

Video

De Gea is quite clearly an amazing shot-stopper.

Author's take

De Gea is undoubtedly one of United's best players and Madrid will definitely face a tough challenge to complete his signing. However, with Los Blancos ready to offer Kovacic and Navas along with cash, the deal might suit both parties.

De Gea will certainly add more solidity to Madrid's backline while Kovacic will add depth, quality and versatility to the United midfield. It will be interesting to see if the cash + players deal for De Gea does indeed go through in the summer transfer window.