David De Gea to be offered La Liga return with Real Betis after Manchester United exit

David De Gea is still without a club after leaving Manchester United (Picture: Getty Images)

David De Gea could be set for a return to action in the near future as Real Betis work on a deal to bring in the goalkeeper on a free transfer, according to reports in Spain.

The 32-year-old is still without a club after leaving Manchester United at the end of his contract over the summer, bringing to an end a 12-season stint at Old Trafford.

He has been linked with high profile moves to the likes of Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Inter Milan, but not of these have materialised and he remains a free agent.

Spanish publication Fichajes reports that Real Betis are now leading the way to sign the experienced goalkeeper, as former Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini searches for a new stopper.

The report states that Valencia are also keen on De Gea, but Betis is the more likely destination for the Spain international.

Pellegrini’s side have had a mixed start to the campaign, picking up seven points from their first five games, although they have had tricky fixtures, with their two losses coming at Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao.

De Gea has not been short of options since leaving the Premier League and it is yet to be seen whether he accepts the challenge at Real Betis as he continues to train alone.

To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video

More: Manchester United Transfer News

The long-serving Manchester United ‘keeper posted a statement on leaving the club which read: ‘I just wanted to send this farewell message to all Manchester United supporters.

‘I would like to express my unwavering gratitude and appreciation for the love from the last 12 years. We’ve achieved a lot since my dear Sir Alex Ferguson brought me to this club.

‘I took incredible pride every time I pulled on this shirt, to lead the team, to represent this institution, the biggest club in the world was an honour only bestows upon a few lucky footballers.

‘It’s been an unforgettable and successful period since I came here. I didn’t think from leaving Madrid as a young boy we would achieve what we did together.

‘Now, it’s the right time to undertake a new challenge, to push myself again in new surroundings. Manchester will always be in my heart, Manchester has shaped me and will never leave me. We’ve seen it all.’

MORE : Four Manchester United stars in dressing room bust-up after Brighton defeat

MORE : Rio Ferdinand praises Arsenal star who has ‘fitted like a glove’ into Mikel Arteta’s side

For more stories like this, check our sport page.

Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.