Real Madrid talking Iker Casillas exit package, target David De Gea - sources

Posted Saturday, March 28, 2015 by ESPN

ESPN FC's Ross Dyer and Tommy Smyth react to the developing news that Iker Casillas could be finally on his way out of Real Madrid.

Real Madrid have taken the first steps in moves that will see goalkeeper Iker Casillas finally leave the club this summer after 18 years, sources have told ESPN FC.

Although Casillas has not yet begun negotiations with prospective new clubs, and a destination remains unknown, his representatives have already started discussions about the financial package he would receive on leaving the Bernabeu, sources say.

The expected exit would have huge implications for Manchester United, given Real Madrid's long-standing interest in United's Spanish goalkeeper David De Gea, and the fact that he has not yet renewed his deal at Old Trafford.

Sources in Spain say two things right now are certain: "The mood around Real is very much that Casillas will leave this summer" - and that the European champions want De Gea as his direct replacement this summer.

According to the site El Confidencial, the Spanish club are also very conscious of the delicate nature of the situation and don't want to be seen to be pushing Casillas out of the club, given his legendary status.

The crux, however, is that they ultimately need Casillas to go if they are to bring in De Gea to be their long-term No. 1. Casillas is aware of this, and it puts him in an advantageous bargaining position.

El Confidencial this week detailed some of the figures involved; Casillas could be set to receive an extra €3.5 million in bonuses, on top of the €22 million for a contract that is set to end in 2017.

On the other side, there is still no movement on De Gea's contract situation at Old Trafford, but there is a growing fear that he may leave this summer rather than in 2016.