Real Madrid-target De Gea has missed the first two games of United’s US pre-season tour with a mystery back injury, although it is understood nothing showed up when he was sent for a scan at a San Jose hospital.

Van Gaal changed his mind as De Gea entered a series of impressive performances in the Dutchman’s first year on the Old Trafford bench, but the damage to their relationship was already done.

It appears as though Louis van Gaal is prepared to take no chances on his star Spaniard after the Metro revealed that Argentina global Sergio Romero is on the verge of sealing his switch to Old Trafford.

De Gea’s future remains unclear, with Real Madrid still intent on signing him, but of more immediate concern to Van Gaal is making certain his No. 1 keeper is ready to face Tottenham in the opening game on August 8.

Madrid have lodged a final offer of €25m for De Gea and won’t go any higher, and nor will they consider signing a different player.

Upfront, Depay could well live up to the hype, while, on current form, Young deserves to keep Di Maria out of the United team.

‘He’s one of the best defenders in the world and he is happy where he is. Their season will pretty much depend on him, and he can definitely deliver.

While their players are gradually building their fitness and finding their rhythm ahead of the start of the new season, Van Gaal stressed that they need to move up a level in terms of their preparation ahead of their clash against the European champions.

That’s before you even start on the David De Gea situation…