Real Madrid Transfer News: David De Gea Is the Perfect Iker Casillas Replacement

Real Madrid can land the perfect replacement for veteran goalkeeper Iker Casillas by signing Manchester United's young stopper David de Gea. The 23-year-old could consider a move away from Old Trafford, according to Carlos Carpio and Hugo Cerezo of the English version of Marca:

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David de Gea is seen by many as the great Spanish promise capable of taking over from the already legendary Iker Casillas, destined to be Spain's next starting keeper. And maybe Real Madrid's. The name of the ex-Atlético de Madrid shot-stopper has been on the tables of the Bernabéu offices for some time now, and it is said that De Gea likes the idea. ...

David de Gea is not worried about his future. He's happy and at home in Manchester, where he is currently playing out his fourth season at just 23 years of age (24 in November). A possible move to 'Los Blancos' might just be why as yet he hasn't renewed his present contract, which runs out in 2016.

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Of course, De Gea not agreeing to fresh terms with the Red Devils is the big IF in this report. However, De Gea may welcome a return to the Spanish capital after rising to prominence with Real's city rivals Atletico Madrid.

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It's also true that, despite United's growing stature, few players, particularly Spanish-born players, can resist the lure of joining Los Blancos. De Gea would certainly be a major upgrade at the one deeply suspect position in Ancelotti's squad.

Casillas has been floundering for some time, even losing his place to the experienced Diego Lopez during the last two seasons. Ancelotti did recruit Keylor Navas, who starred for Costa Rica during the 2014 FIFA World Cup, this summer.

However, the 27-year-old ex-Levante ace doesn't appear to be considered a starting option. He's made just one appearance for Los Merengues this season, per WhoScored.com.

De Gea would certainly be a feature in this Real team. His performances for United have Spain's fans already clamouring for him to replace Casillas at international level.

That's according to a Marca poll (h/t Mail Online writer Rajvir Rai):

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David de Gea is the overwhelming favourite among Spain fans to replace Iker Casillas. ...

A poll by Spanish newspaper Marca saw 86 per cent of fans vote for De Gea to be given a chance.

De Gea has two caps for Vicente Del Bosque’s side compared to Casillas’ 158.

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De Gea has been earning similar plaudits at club level. But he initially found life in England's top flight a major struggle.

His physical frailty was regularly challenged by the rough and tumble aspects of the Premier League, particularly from set-pieces. He was ordered to bulk up by then-manager Sir Alex Ferguson back in March, 2012, per Daily Mail reporter Ian Ladyman.

De Gea has since made the grade. He recently merited praise from United goalkeeping legend Peter Schmeichel after an awesome display to preserve a 2-1 win over Everton, per Daily Star reporter Rhys Turrell.

DAVE CAULKIN/Associated Press/Associated Press

Ancelotti needs that kind of match-winning 'keeper to balance his attacking team. With a defence that is often not afforded much protection from a forward-thinking midfield, a goalie who can earn points during the season would be invaluable.

However, making room for De Gea at the Bernabeu obviously depends on Casillas' immediate future. He is coveted by Premier League sides Arsenal and Liverpool, per Daily Express writer Anthony Chapman:

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Club legend Casillas is no longer first-choice with Los Blancos, and is looking for a way out after receiving a barrage of abuse from fans after a number of poor performances at the start of the season.

Arsenal and Liverpool are both interested in taking the 33-year-old to England, but United boss Louis Van Gaal will be hoping the veteran stays with the La Liga giants as he prepares to tie De Gea down to a new contract.

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Both Liverpool and Arsenal have need for an experienced 'keeper. Despite his recent failings, Casillas certainly fits the bill as a consistent winner at the game's highest level. A change of scenery could be the perfect tonic for his late-career woes.

The timing certainly seems ripe for Casillas to be shuffled off and for a new era between the sticks to begin for Los Blancos. As one of the most talented young players in the world at his position, De Gea would be the perfect choice for that new era.