- by Hiten Mandalia, writing from West London
De Gea has been part of successful teams at both club and international level and he has proven that he has the potential to be one of the best goalkeepers in the near future. His £18.9m move from Atletico Madrid to Manchester United makes him the second most expensive signing for a goalkeeper in football history.
The move to Old Trafford hasn't done no harm to his career. It will only make him a better player, as he'll be playing at the top level on a consistent basis. He'll get regular action in the Premier League and in the Champions League, where he'll be tested against some of the best players in the world. Playing at the top level will surely enhance his chances of becoming No.1 goalkeeper for Spain.
Fighting for the No.1 jersey for Spain is a difficult challenge as there are many quality Spanish goalkeepers, but with De Gea being only 21 he's still got plenty of years to gain the No.1 jersey. However, it may only be a matter of time before De Gea is the goalkeeper of the Spanish national squad. Iker Casillas has been their goalkeeper for the best part of ten years, and once he hangs up his boots, it may be the perfect time for De Gea to replace him.
In the meantime, if he can prove himself at Manchester United, then his chance of becoming Spain's goalkeeper will improve. If he can prove his abilities on the international stage and win tournaments, then he could go onto achieve what Casillas has.
De Gea has the potential to be the best goalkeeper in the world, and joining arguably the best club in the world at the age of 21 emphasises how good of a goalkeeper
