Real Madrid have agreed a deal to sell their veteran goalkeeper Iker Casillas to Porto.
In a turn of events which could have an impact in the ongoing situation regarding David de Gea’s potential move from Manchester United to the Bernabeu, Spain and Real’s long-term No 1 has agreed to move aside.
In an emotional statement released by the club, Casillas, who joined Real at nine years old and has played for them over 700 times, was described as the club’s and Spain’s greatest ever goalkeeper.
“Real Madrid CF and FC Porto have agreed the transfer to the Portuguese club of Iker Casillas,” the statement read.
“For Real Madrid today is a day, before and above all, of acknowledgment that they will no longer have one of the best goalkeepers we’ve had at our club.
“Today, the best goalkeeper in the history of Real Madrid and in Spanish football history starts a new stage.
“Iker Casillas has made our shield even bigger. He was our captain and this has forged his legend since arriving as a child of only nine years old.
“We are a club of 113 years and Casillas has defended our goal for 25 of those years. During that time Iker has managed to become one of our main references and has earned respect, affection, and admiration from the fans.”
Casillas had previously stated that he was determined to remain the club’s No 1 and fight for his place, as reports in the media grew of Real’s determination to sign fellow Spaniard De Gea.
But Sky Sports reported on Tuesday the comments of Casillas’ agent, Carlo Cutropia, that his client was considering a move to Porto.
Source: Sky Sports