Real Madrid 'to hand Iker Casillas £2.5m payoff'

Real Madrid are reportedly willing to give keeper Iker Casillas a £2.5m payoff as they try to lure Manchester United's David de Gea to the Bernabeu.

De Gea is yet to sign a new contract with the Red Devils and has been heavily linked with a move to Los Merengues.

According to The Express, Real have identified the United shot-stopper as the heir to Casillas, but the club are worried that they could lose out on the 24-year-old if they don't act soon.

It is thought Casillas, 32, will be made available on a free transfer at the end of the season, in order to free up space in their squad for ex-Atletico Madrid star De Gea.

Real are currently four points behind La Liga leaders Barcelona after the Blaugrana won El Clasico at Camp Nou last Sunday.