As we all know, Manchester United ‘keeper David De Gea saw a last gasp move to Real Madrid sensationally collapse in the dying embers of deadline day.

The Spaniard between the sticks will now stay at Old Trafford until at least January, and rumours suggest he could be set to extend his stay even further.

David is caught between two goliaths. He is adored in Manchester, having been voted the clubs’ Player of the Year following a breath-taking campaign as the Red Devils returned to the Champions League. The club have expressed their ‘delight’ in keeping a hold of their ‘keeper.

However, many miles south lie Real Madrid. Arguably the world’s biggest club, with a universal following and a raft of Galacticos currently lining up in the famous all white, it is easy to see the temptation – despite his Atletico roots.

The sway Los Blancos hold is undeniable. Over the years we have seen a plethora of mega-money signing arrive at the Saniago Bernabeu, expressing their delight in being able to ply their trade for the Madrid club.

Gareth Bale, James Rodriguez and of course Cristiano Ronaldo are just a few of the names manager Rafa Benitez can call on, and the chance to replace the iconic Iker Casillas between the posts may have proved to be far too appealing to De Gea, who had looked set to join the ranks.

Yet, he remains a Red Devil. The fiasco has led to a bitter, somewhat childish, blame game between two gargantuan institutions, who have publicly aired their dirty laundry.

So, how did it happen? Madrid president Florentino Perez is renowned for getting his way. Whether it be prizing Luis Figo away from arch rivals Barcelona, waiting an entire year to bring former United forward Cristiano Ronaldo to Spain, or paying a world-record fee for Gareth Bale – Perez proves potent.

Potent Perez may be, but prudent he is not. The Galactico policy is centred around brining in a top player every year, whatever the cost, in order to feed the marketing machine. Real Madrid get who they want.

But, they did not secure the services of the La Roja star. No boat was pushed out to sign the player, with the only bid coming less than 24 hours before the Spanish transfer window slammed shut. Questions must surely be asked as to how much the club really want the player.

Granted, he does have a year to go on his contract. But does waiting a year to sign him on a free really sound like Florentino Perez? No.

In his current surroundings, the 24-year old is revered and adored. Despite being left out of the side so far this season, it is hard to imagine boos coming his way when he makes his inevitable return.

The De Gea saga is far from over, and as stated, Madrid usually get their way.

However, a look into the past throws up an odd question – how much did they really want him? Madrid move mountains to bring in their Galacticos – yet didn’t even bid for the player until the last day of the window.

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