De Gea's distribution is nowhere near as good as made out. In fact it's a major hindrance to Man United's game. He gives away possession all the time short and long, especially since Mourinho came in. Nowhere near as good as Schmeichel was in that aspect.
He is possibly the greatest shot stopper I've ever seen however. Consistently saves goals some other keepers wouldn't get near to, always clears shots away from the box too.