Paul Scholes explains why Manchester United must keep hold of David de Gea this summer

Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes believes that it is important the club ties goalkeeper David de Gea down to a new contract.

The Spaniard, who joined the Reds from Atletico Madrid back in June 2011, is out-of-contract at the end of the season and terms over a new deal are yet to be agreed. United have the option to extend De Gea's stay at Old Trafford by a further 12 months via a clause in his current deal, but they want him to agree to a wage cut to stay at the club.

The shot-stopper has regularly reiterated how much he wants to stay at United, though he has admitted that he is currently focusing on on-field matters ahead of a crucial stage of the season. But with the summer fast approaching, Scholes has outlined why he believes it is crucial that Erik ten Hag keeps hold of him.

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"I think David, over the last few years, has shown what a quality 'keeper he is," Scholes told the Webby & O'Neill YouTube channel. "He probably hasn't had the greatest of form for a year or so but I think he is now looking like the top class goalkeeper that he always was, I suppose.

"It is up to the manager and I think he has a big part to play [in deciding his future]. I know, in an ideal world, he would like a 'keeper that can play out from the back; I don't think that is David's strength.

"I think David, which I think is the most important thing, is a great shot-stopper, who makes great saves and wins you a lot of points, which (Peter) Schmeichel and (Edwin) Van der Sar did back in the day. I think it is important they try and sign him.

"He has given us great service, the fans love him, the crowd love him and he is