Roberto Martinez reveals how Manchester United-bound David de Gea slipped through Wigan’s fingers

David De Gea, Atletico de Madrid (Getty Images)

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Wigan Athletic manager Roberto Martinez has revealed how close the club came to signing Atletico Madrid goalkeeper David de Gea, the man widely expected to join champions Manchester United this summer.

The Spaniard almost became a Latic just two years ago, but the deal ultimately collapsed at the last minute with Martinez admitting he is not surprised by the performances he has gone onto produce.

“It’s true, we had David de Gea signed on a loan deal, but unfortunately on the last day of the transfer window everything fell through,” he told the Evening Post.

“The problem wasn’t on our side of the agreement – Atletico Madrid just felt he had to stay, and they were proved to be right.

“Shortly afterwards, their two senior goalkeepers got injured, he got an opportunity and he quickly became a hero. And everyone has been able to see for themselves the true quality of David de Gea.”

De Gea is expected to move to Old Trafford imminently, for a fee in the region of £20 million, which Martinez believes is a “bargain”.

“We followed him for a long, long time, and we have always known how good he is,” he added.

“He has matured so much at such a young age, and the price tag Manchester United are talking about already looks to be a bargain.”