David de Gea's Transfer to Real Madrid Reportedly Stalls Due to Late Paperwork

In what could be one of the most farcical failed transfers in recent memory, David de Gea's dream move to Real Madrid is apparently on the brink of falling through after administrative failings by Madrid and/or Manchester United.    

Rumors of this move have simmered for months, and it appeared the two clubs finally agreed to terms. However, Bleacher Report's Guillem Balague reported the official documents confirming the transfer didn't make it to the Spanish Football Federation office in time:

Spanish paper AS then reported the papers did arrive ahead of the deadline, but federation officials were unable to open them on their computers. Following that story, Matthew Stanger of JOE.co.uk offered up this bit of tech-based humor:

Bleacher Report UK also had some fun with the situation:

Early Tuesday morning, Football journalist Greg Stobart reported Manchester United did their part to finalize the transfer, only to have Real Madrid fail to register it with the Spanish federation.

Whether he's at fault or not, the saga doesn't reflect well on Ed Woodward in the eyes of the football world. United fans have come to blame the executive vice chairman for many of the club's failings in the transfer market.

At least this doesn't look as bad for Woodward as when he attempted to sign Ander Herrera and failed in spectacular fashion.

Luckily for Woodward and all parties involved, they may be spared from ignominy. According to Balague, an official from FIFA will look over everything and potentially push the transfer through. Mark Ogden of the Telegraph believes that will be the ultimate outcome given the number of major players involved.

It would certainly be to everybody's benefit—particularly de Gea's—if FIFA ruled in favor of allowing the transfer. De Gea is one of the best goalkeepers in the world, but he'll be put in a difficult spot if he has to return to Old Trafford after getting so close to a return to Spain.