Casillas signs new Real deal

IKER CASILLAS has signed a new Real Madrid contract which ties him to the Bernabeu until 2011.

The Spain goalkeeper’s deal was due to expire in June next year and Casillas had been linked with a number of clubs, including Arsenal, Manchester United and Madrid’s rivals Barcelona.

But the 24-year-old was happy to commit his future to Madrid and hopes to build on his two league crowns and two Champions League titles. “For a couple of months I have been saying my wish is to remain here. I have never thought of any other club. I want to thank Madrid and give back titles, success and hard work. I want to be here for a long, long time,” Casillas said.

“I grew up in Madrid and I want to die in Madrid in a sporting sense. I’ll be here until I’m 30. Let’s hope in 2010 we can renew until 2016 or 2017.”