Louis van Gaal is now optimistic Manchester United may be able to keep David de Gea.

De Gea has been consistently linked to Real Madrid despite a substantial contract offer from United.

"I believe still that David De Gea shall stay," said Van Gaal, who feels De Gea's relationship with the Man United fans could be vital in the final decision.

"I think he shall have a very difficult solution," Van Gaal said. "He is loved by the fans, he loves the environment. When he goes he loses that. It's a difficult decision, because he is not making the decision."

De Gea's contract expires in 2016.