David De Gea has reflected on the infamous 2015 fax blunder that cost him a dream move to Real Madrid, admitting it was “close” but ultimately meant to be. Now thriving at Fiorentina, the veteran keeper remains at peace with how things unfolded.
David De Gea has spoken out about the infamous 2015 transfer saga that almost saw him swap Manchester United for Real Madrid—only for a fax machine delay to derail one of the most dramatic deadline day moves in modern football history.
The former United No.1, who now plies his trade with Fiorentina in Serie A, gave a rare insight into the failed deal in a recent interview with Cronache Di Spogliatoio, admitting the move was “very close” to completion before fate intervened. Despite the high-profile breakdown, De Gea insists he has no regrets about how things unfolded.
“When things don’t happen, it’s for a reason. It was close, but the transfer wasn’t completed,” De Gea said. “Personally, it went well, because Manchester is my home.”
The Deal That Never Was
Back in the summer of 2015, De Gea appeared destined to join Real Madrid, returning to his native Spain after establishing himself as one of the world’s best goalkeepers at Old Trafford. The deal was agreed in principle, with both clubs settling on a fee and the player reportedly set on the move.
But in a now-infamous twist, the transfer collapsed at the final hurdle after paperwork failed to arrive on time via fax before the transfer window slammed shut. Real Madrid and United pointed fingers over who was to blame, but ultimately, De Gea stayed put.
United Legacy Intact
Had the move gone through, De Gea’s career might have followed a very different trajectory. Instead, he remained a pillar at Manchester United for several more seasons, amassing over 500 appearances and lifting a string of trophies including the Premier League (2013), FA Cup (2016), Europa League (2017), and two Carabao Cups.
Signed by Sir Alex Ferguson from Atlético Madrid in 2011, the Spaniard overcame early doubts to become a club legend and a four-time Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year—more than any other United player.
Reinvention in Florence
Now 33, De Gea has found a new lease of life at Fiorentina after more than a year as a free agent. He joined the Viola in 2024 and has already made a strong impression in Italy, keeping 11 clean sheets in 42 matches during his debut campaign. His form was rewarded with a new contract extension until 2028, reaffirming his resurgence as one of Europe’s most reliable shot-stoppers.
While he has promised to reveal more details about the failed Madrid switch after his playing days are over, De Gea’s recent comments suggest peace with the past. Manchester may not have been his original destination, but it became his footballing home.
