Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag said he hoped “magnificent” goalkeeper David de Gea would stay beyond this season at the club after seeing the Spaniard play a starring role in his side’s 1-0 win over West Ham United on Sunday.

De Gea produced three stunning saves in the second half to help United stretch their unbeaten run to eight in all competitions and earn a victory that moved them up to fifth in the Premier League.

Widespread reports in the British media, however, have said that United are not certain to extend the Spanish keeper’s contract, which expires at the end of the current campaign.

“This issue about negotiating (contracts), we said first we are focusing on the games,” Ten Hag said. “When we come to an end with this block, we have the World Cup and then we have to think about them.

“In the background we have our strategies for how to deal with it. It is clear already and I have already emphasised it several times, I am really happy with David. He is a great goalkeeper.

“He is only 31. He is fit. He can progress even more. He was already impressively good for Man United and I think he will do that in the future as well.”

De Gea’s role at United had come under intense scrutiny after his side’s humiliating four-goal loss at Brentford early in the season.

Ten Hag’s post-match analysis ripped into the “naive” actions of the goalkeeper in the embarrassing defeat.

Yet De Gea has maintained his place in the side — despite the arrival of Martin Dubravka on loan from Newcastle — and has enjoyed a resurgence in form. United have conceded just one goal in their past six matches — a penalty against Chelsea.

“If we don’t manage it with the 10 outfield players on the pitch you can really see defending with 11 because we have a great goalkeeper. With great saves and composure you can rely on him,” Ten Hag said.

Marcus Rashford headed the winner in the first half at Old Trafford on Sunday, continuing his return to form this term as he passed 100 goals for his club in all competitions.

“When you have scored 100 goals before you turn 25 you are already there,” Ten Hag added. “But I think he won’t be satisfied just with that.

“It is about how many trophies you win with your club. I think he can develop his game even more. His heading has to improve and he worked on it.”