REAL MADRID GOALKEEPER Iker Casillas has welcomed the club’s interest in David De Gea, insisting that the Santiago Bernabeu side should sign the Manchester United star.
Casillas has suffered heavy criticism in recent seasons following a number high-profile mistakes and there is mounting speculation that the Liga outfit are ready to axe their captain this summer.
But despite suggestions that De Gea’s potential arrival could signal the end of his spell in the Spanish capital, Casillas still feels that Madrid should move for the 24-year-old shot-stopper, who has thus far refused to sign a new contract at United.
Indeed, when asked by reporters if he would like to see De Gea arrive from Old Trafford, the Blancos skipper stated: “Of course I would.”
However, when asked if he would be at the Bernabeu himself next season, a defiant Casillas added: “Yes, I will be [at Real Madrid next season].”
This week, Manchester United coach Louis Van Gaal denied suggestions De Gea was set to return to Spain. However, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is reported to have lost patience with Casillas, who endured a torrid time for his country during last year’s World Cup, making two major errors in his side’s 5-1 loss to Netherlands in the group stage in Brazil.
Casillas was dropped by former Madrid coach Jose Mourinho in 2013 but won back his place in the starting line-up under Carlo Ancelotti this season.
Casillas, who joined the club’s academy 25 years ago, has claimed three Champions League titles and five Liga crowns since making his professional debut in 1999.
