David de Gea has shown Manchester United a new transfer priority for the summer

It has been said time and time again this season that Manchester United's defence is the true weak spot of a thoroughly underwhelming side.

David de Gea's post-match dissections of the state of the United squad have become almost a monthly occurrence, but at this stage who can blame him? Week in, week out, De Gea has seen his back four crumble in front of him and last Saturday at Everton was no different.

As Anthony Gordon unleashed his strike towards the Spaniard's net only Bruno Fernandes seemed to be alert to any hint of danger, startling though that might be, as the shot went past De Gea. The 31-year-old's frustrated reaction said it all on the pitch even before he spoke to the press.

ALSO READ: Rio Ferdinand reveals Sir Alex Ferguson's big transfer regret at Manchester United

He told BT Sport: "They played Wednesday and they were tired but they had more desire than us, that is not acceptable. Very sad to lose. It is a disgrace from us. We should be winning this game."

In recent research by BetVictor, De Gea ranked second for the least amount of goals conceded compared to what the statistics suggest. It reflects well on De Gea, but for the United defence it should be a source of embarrassment and shame.

United were expected to concede 49 goals so far this season, according to data metrics. To put that into perspective, this weekend's opponents Norwich City were expected to concede around 43 goals and they sit bottom of the Premier League.

The frequency by which De Gea's goal is peppered by opposition forwards is alarming and unacceptable. It is a miracle that more goals haven't gone in. And without seriously addressing the issues directly in front of De Gea these stats are bound to become worse with every passing