Van Gaal already planning for De Gea's departure: 'We also have a list of goalkeepers'

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal will be ready in the event that David de Gea isn't between the posts at Old Trafford next season.

The Spanish shot-stopper, whose contract expires in 2016 and who has reportedly been offered a new deal from United that would see him earn £150,000 per week, continues to be linked to hometown club Real Madrid.

Although he hopes De Gea will remain at United, Van Gaal claimed on Friday that he'll be prepared should the goalkeeper depart for the Santiago Bernabeu.

"When we have a very good scouting commission, then we shall already know who shall be the next goalkeeper," Van Gaal said, according to the Guardian. "We also have a list of goalkeepers who can replace him because we have to be organised always. Not only for that position but for every position. We want him to stay and I hope he shall sign.

"But that's the process that I have said. You have three parties and the most important party is always the player. I have already said in this conference (previously) so I cannot repeat myself, I don't want to repeat myself. I don't know (why he hasn't decided). I cannot say what he's saying to me."

When asked if United can offer De Gea everything Real Madrid can provide, Van Gaal responded: "I don't know, I cannot speak for Real Madrid."

It was reported in late April that United were eyeing Hugo Lloris of Tottenham as a potential replacement, while Chelsea's Petr Cech and Inter Milan's Samir Handanovic are also believed to be on Van Gaal's radar.