Transfer Talk: Toon tracking De Gea as short-term Pope replacement

Mitchell Fretton

LiveScore

David de Gea has been without a club since leaving Manchester United

David de Gea could be closing in on a sensational return to the Premier League with Newcastle considering an approach.

The Spaniard, 33, has been without a club since leaving Manchester United in the summer but with Nick Pope set for a spell on the sidelines, he could return to action ahead of the busy Christmas period in England.

Pope suffered a dislocated shoulder in the 1-0 win over United last weekend and needs surgery that will sideline him for around five months.

And the Daily Mail say the Magpies will move for a replacement stopper, with the Spaniard at the top of their shortlist.

De Gea spent 12 years at Old Trafford and many fans were left furious when he was released at the end of his contract a few months ago.

His pedigree and availability make him a suitable fit at St James' Park but the Toon are unlikely to table anywhere near the £375,000-a-week pay packet he was picking up in Manchester.

Across his 415 Premier League appearances, the two-time Golden Glove winner kept 147 clean sheets and is famed for his spider-like reflexes and shot-stopping abilities.

A short-term deal on Tyneside would suit all parties as Newcastle look to solidify a place in the top four and progress to the last 16 of the Champions League.