De Gea would be 'really happy' to assume United captaincy

Manchester United shot-stopper David de Gea expressed an interest in becoming club captain as he edges closer to a reported new contract.

De Gea, 28, has deputized at captain recently in the absence of Ashley Young and full-time skipper Antonio Valencia, and after the latter's summer departure, the Spanish 'keeper is looking to increase his leadership role for the 2019-20 season.

"It is amazing to be captain of a club like Manchester United and defend this badge so, of course, I’ll be really, really happy to captain," De Gea told the Telegraph's James Ducker.

"It’s my ninth season, I feel like one of the most experienced players," De Gea added. "I need to show that on the pitch and try to help the young guys know what Manchester United means and that’s important."

The apparent £375,000-per-week deal would make De Gea the club's highest-paid player and ends reports of a contractual impasse and potential exit. There were fears that the Spanish international would leave next summer on a free transfer at the completion of his current terms.

De Gea was named United's Player of the Year in four of the last six seasons and is one of only a quartet of players in the squad, alongside Young, Phil Jones, and Chris Smalling, to have won the Premier League with the Red Devils.