Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, has proposed that the World Cup may be used to discuss David de Gea's contract status at Old Trafford.

The 31-year-old has participated in all 17 of Man United's contests during the 2022–23 season, recording eight shutouts in the process, including one in Sunday's 1-0 Premier League triumph over West Ham United.

Against the Hammers, De Gea displayed outstanding play, making three clutch saves to deny Michail Antonio, Kurt Zouma, and Declan Rice during a productive stretch for David Moyes' team.

The goalkeeper's future at Old Trafford is still quite uncertain, though, as his contract with the 20-time English champions is set to expire at the end of June.

Man United does have the option to extend his contract by another 12 months, but there have been rumors that the team would like to recruit a new long-term number one.

Goalkeepers like Diogo Costa of Porto and Unai Simon of Athletic Bilbao have been mentioned as potential transfers to Old Trafford, but Ten Hag has suggested that De Gea will remain with the team.

Since the goalie is not anticipated to be included in Spain's World Cup roster, contract negotiations may take place during the competition, which starts in a month.

"This issue about negotiating [contracts], we said first we are focusing on the games. When we come to an end with this block, we have the World Cup and then we have to think about them," Ten Hag told reporters.

"In the background we have our strategies for how to deal with it. It is clear already and I have already emphasised it several times, I am really happy with David. He is a great goalkeeper.

"He is only 31. He is fit. He can progress even more. He was already impressively good for Man United and I think he will do that in the future as well."