Manchester United want Galactico in return for De Gea from Madrid

Manchester United are readying themselves for another summer of interest in star goalkeeper David de Gea from Real Madrid but will look to demand Toni Kroos in return rather than money, reports The Independent.

Madrid missed out on De Gea’s signature in farcical circumstances two summers ago and are ready to go all out for the Spain international at the end of the season as Zinedine Zidane’s side finally look to sign a long-term replacement for Iker Casillas.

Keylor Navas has filled in between the sticks for the last two seasons on a full-time basis after Casillas left for Porto in 2015 but his performances have dropped this season and now Madrid are looking to add a star name to their glittering squad.

De Gea has still not decided whether he wants to join Madrid but there is a growing feeling that a move is gathering pace, while United have already scouted Inter goalkeeper Samir Handanovic and AC Milan wonderkid Gianluigi Donnarumma as potential replacements.

However, United are prepared for battle with Madrid. The reigning European Champions usually get their way with transfers but United have no need to sell for money and will instead rekindle their long-standing interest in Kroos and demand the Germany international is included in any deal.

The 27-year-old has been tipped as the ideal controlling midfielder to bring the best out of world record signing Paul Pogba, while Jose Mourinho has also intimated that Casemiro would be another midfielder they would plump for, although Madrid insist he is not for sale due to a shortage of players in that position available in the market.

No player has registered more assists in La Liga this season than Kroos (11).

For more stats on Toni Kroos, click here to visit his WhoScored player page