The highly rated young goalkeeper, David De Gea, signed a contract renewal that will keep him with the Rojiblancos until June 30, 2013. With Barcelona not planning to renew Pinto’s deal, the 19 year-old De Gea became an option to fill in the gap after Pinto’s departure.

As soon as FC Barcelona’s interest became public, Atletico’s board found it necessary to secure the services of their hot prospect. “It’s another step forward in my professional career…”‘ quoted Soccernet, with him as saying. “I’ve spent all my sporting life at Atletico Madrid and for me it’s an honour and a dream to be able to play in the first team having come up through the Rojiblanco youth system…” he concluded on his club’s website.

Spain’s Under-21 goalkeeper was closely monitored by Barcelona and Manchester United for a while now, but no firm offer was received from both clubs. De Gea is currently battling for a place in the starting line up with another former Barcelona target Sergio Asenjo.

Written by: Ilko