This David de Gea to Real Madrid saga is getting a bit tiresome now.

We are approaching almost two years since the Spaniard's proposed switch from Manchester United was scuppered by a last minute administrative error.

And with the summer transfer window now in sight, the speculation surrounding Man United's no.1 is starting to take centre stage once again.

Despite Madrid turning down the chance to sign De Gea for €60 million last year, they look set to renew their interest in him at the end of the season.

The constant rumours aren't exactly helpful for Jose Mourinho, however, who, at a crucial stage of the campaign, needs his keeper to be at his very best.

In fact, according to the Daily Record's Man United expert, Duncan Castles, Mourinho has decided not to beat around the bush any longer and point-blank asked his star man whether he would like to join Real Madrid.

De Gea's response what was most of the footballing world had probably already guessed: he would like to join Los Blancos at some point in his career if the opportunity presented itself.

The 26-year-old does not want to force his way out of Old Trafford and has actually preferred working under Mourinho to Louis van Gaal so at least the United boss has that working in his favour.

De Gea's current contract isn't set to expire until 2019 although the Red Devils do have the option to extend it for a further year.

However, Mourinho appreciates the lure of the Bernabeu to a player who grew up in the city and has dedicated the last six years to playing in England.

And if this summer does prove to be De Gea's departure, Castles also confirmed that Joe Hart would be Mourinho's first choice to replace him.

But no transfer between the two Manchester clubs is ever straight forward and Pep Guardiola will be understandably reluctant to sell to their local rivals.