Transfer News: Casillas to be replaced by Kiko Casilla

Real Madrid have achieved the services of the Espanyol goalkeeper Kiko Casilla for €6 million.

The 28-year-old had been a part of the Madrid based team for two years, but he moved to Espanyol six years ago and is now returning to his previous club.

This was confirmed by the Espanyol president,  Joan Collet:

“We have reached an agreement with Real Madrid of €6m for Kiko Casilla.” The following tweet was also posted by the club’s official account.

Casilla would presently be the second goalkeeper for the Los Blancos behind Keylor Navas. Espanyol goalie, though, might be shifted to the 3rd priority position if David de Gea’s deal does end up in Real Madrid’s favor. Keylor Navas just returned from an injury and Rafa Benitez has probably found a back-up plan.

Casilla was quoted saying in a press conference, according to ESPN FC:

“This opens a new stage in my life and I hope to enjoy it.

“This is a difficult moment for me because I am leaving the team I love, but the opportunity for me to go is unique for me. I hope that the club and the fans understand. I am very proud to have been at Espanyol.

“These kinds of opportunities only come around once. I am very happy to be signing for Real Madrid.”

Espanyol is deeply in financial trouble as they owe €130m to Spanish taxes, which forced them to complete this deal, even though the club feels the player was undervalued in this agreement.

The club though, looks to bring on loan the highly rated Marcos Asensio from Real Madrid. The 19-year-old has shown brilliant talent already, and might improve the team’s present situation in the league.