United's De Gea Hopes Boosted By CL

Manchester United are now hopeful of keeping David de Gea after qualifying for the Champions League, Sky sources understand.

Champions League finalists Real Madrid are understood to be interested in Spain international De Gea, who was left on the bench for United's Europa League final win as No 2 Sergio Romero kept his starting berth throughout the competition.

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With Europa League glory in Stockholm, Jose Mourinho has given himself a platform to take Manchester United forward next year

Jose Mourinho has insisted he wants to keep De Gea, the goalkeeper he regards as the world's best, and said he believes the player's next game would be "in pre-season against Los Angeles".

Sky Sports News HQ understands United are more confident of fighting off interest in their first-choice 'keeper after the 2-0 victory over Ajax secured their place in Europe's elite club competition for the 2017-18 campaign.

Meanwhile, Michael Carrick will be offered a new one-year contract at Manchester United, according to Sky sources.

Carrick, 35, is the second-longest serving player at Old Trafford behind Wayne Rooney and said in March he would strongly consider retiring if his United contract is not extended this summer.

The midfielder has been at United for 11 years since arriving from Tottenham Hotspur in 2006, and his tenure will be marked on June 4 by a testimonial match, which will raise money for his charitable foundation.

Credit: Skysports.com