MAT RYAN is a shock target to replace David De Gea at Manchester United.

Old Trafford bigwigs are secretly planning for life without their Spanish keeper after he decided not to sign the new deal that has been dangled in front of him.

5 Mat Ryan has emerged as a shock target for Manchester United Credit: Getty Images - Getty

5 David De Gea has refused to dispel fears of a free transfer to Juventus Credit: AP:Associated Press

And that has seen them step up their recruitment drive, with Brighton’s highly-rated Ryan a surprise name at the top of their hit-list.

United boss Jose Mourinho — who is represented by De Gea’s agent, Jorge Mendes — admitted he is “not confident” of keeping his No 1 at the club.

Even though the former Atletico star’s dream of a return to Madrid was wrecked when Real signed Thibaut Courtois from Chelsea, he will still let his contract run down.

Juventus are keen to land De Gea but Paris Saint-Germain will offer the 27-year-old anything he wants to help them fulfil their ambition of building a side capable of finally winning the Champions League.

5 Jose Mourinho is not confident of keeping the Spaniard at the club Credit: PA:Empics Sport

5 De Gea is reportedly a target for Juventus Credit: Getty - Contributor

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Aussie Ryan, 26, has impressed for Brighton since his £5million switch from Valencia in July 2017.

He was praised as Chris Hughton’s side racked up 1-0 wins over West Ham, Newcastle and Wolves to move up to 11th.

United believe the 6ft 2in Ryan — who was named the best keeper in Belgium during each of his two years at Club Brugge — is ready to take the step up to a big six club.

5 Ryan has three and a half years left on his deal Credit: Getty - Contributor

He still has 3½ years left on his Brighton deal.

But while boss Hughton would be reluctant to lose his star stopper, it would be difficult to stand in his way if United come in with a decent offer.