Real Madrid sign Espanyol goalkeeper Kiko Casilla for €3 million

Real Madrid have completed the signing of Espanyol goalkeeper Kiko Casilla, according to a report from Cadena COPE. An official announcement from the club is expected within the next 24 hours.

The Spain international has been the third-choice goalkeeper behind Iker Casillas and David de Gea.

Casilla began his career in Real Madrid’s youth system before joining Espanyol on a free transfer in August 2007. The 28-year-old is expected to join Los Blancos this week and will fly with the team on Sunday to Australia, where they will begin their pre-season tour.

The signing of Casilla became a priority when it was learned the club’s number one, Iker Casillas, was on the verge of joining FC Porto. Also, back-up Keylor Navas has been ruled out for at least three weeks while he recovers from an injury; and Real Madrid officials are still attempting to negotiate the transfer of David de Gea from Manchester United.

Real Madrid have reportedly paid Espanyol €3 million for Casilla’s services.

The club is expected to continue its pursuit of David de Gea. But if Real Madrid should fail in its attempts to pry the Spanish goalkeeper away from United this season, club officials are comfortable with having the shot stopping tandem of Navas and Casilla for the upcoming 2015-16 campaign.

Real Madrid is also continuing talks with Bayer Leverkusen goalkeeper Bernd Leno, in the event De Gea surprises the footballing world by re-signing with Manchester United.