Jose Mourinho looks on during Manchester United’s match with Real Madrid (Reuters)

Despite playing a starring role in helping Manchester United beat Real Madrid in a pre-season friendly, David De Gea seemed to be very popular with members of the defeated team.

The Spanish goalkeeper saved Real Madrid’s first two penalties in the shoot-out after the game in Santa Clara ended 1-1 after 90 minutes.

De Gea’s performance, having come on at half-time, will likely further fuel rumours that he could be in line for a transfer to Real Madrid; The Champions League holders will have been impressed with what they saw after he saved from Mateo Kovacic and Oscar.

De Gea celebrates his role in Man Utd’s win (Getty)

He’s long been linked with a move to the Bernabeu and rumours have resurfaced that Real Madrid are working on a deal.

Jose Mourinho insisted before their meeting that there was no way his goalkeeper would be leaving this summer but rumours persist.

The eagerness of a few Real Madrid players to talk to De Gea after the game will surely fan the flames.

The highlight of the match, which ended 1-1 after goals from Jesse Lingard and Casemiro, was a sublime bit of trickery from Anthony Martial to assist for the opener.

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