Atletico Madrid goalkeeper David De Gea's representatives have confirmed they have already had contact with Manchester United.
Sir Alex Ferguson has dispatched his scouts and goalkeeping coach Eric Steele around the world looking at possible successors to van der Sar.
In recent months they known to have watched Manuel Neuer, Maarten Stekelenburg, Rene Adler and De Gea - whilst also being linked with a number of others.
Recent reports have suggested that United have already lodged an offer for De Gea, and although this has been played down by Atletico - his agent has admitted that contact has been made.
"Well, we did have talks with Manchester United but, first of all, they always look for an agreement with the club," Hector Rincon confirmed. "Anyway, most of the biggest European teams have shown interest in David de Gea."
Rincon insists he does not know whether Atletico would even be willing to sell.
"What I can tell you is that his release clause now is 20 million euros, but I have no idea if the club would sell him for less.
"Right now, the player has a contract with Atletico Madrid and if Manchester United or any other team want him they will have to reach an agreement or pay the whole release clause."
Rincon also revealed that earlier in his career De Gea was wanted by Wigan, whilst also reaffirming that other Premier League clubs are in the hunt for his signature.
"Some time ago, before he became an important player in Atletico, Wigan made an offer, but the club rejected it. Recently, I don't want to say any names but all the big clubs in England and in Europe have asked about him," told Sport.co.uk.
