De Gea, who has been outstanding for United all season, has been linked with a move to Real Madrid for a number of months.
And while the Spaniard is reportedly keen to join the La Liga giants, Neville says United need to try and keep their number one shot-stopper – or sell him as part of a swap deal with Real.
"United need to try and keep him," Neville told Sky Sports.
"If they’re not going to keep him, there’s only one club you can think of that is going to come in for him. United have got to take someone off them.
"He has settled down now and is performing fantastically well.
"He’s been the best player for United all season, and he’s a candidate for player of the season."
GETTY
Gary Neville says Manchester United need to try and keep David De Gea
United need to try and keep him
Gary Neville
De Gea, who has made 126 appearances in his United career, has kept 10 clean sheets in the Premier League this term.
His presence between the sticks has been invaluable to the Reds in their rise to third in the table.
And Neville insists a settled goalkeeper can be one of the most important positions in the squad.
"When this club - and any club for that matter – don’t have the goalkeeping position settled, it creates anxiety and nervousness all the way through the team," he said.
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
