Asier Illarramendi wants to fight for place at Real Madrid

Real Madrid midfielder Asier Illarramendi has confirmed that he wants to remain at the club and fight for first-team football.

The Spaniard's future has been called into question following reports that Brazilian prospect Lucas Silva is on the brink of joining the La Liga giants, but Illarramendi welcomes the competition.

"The club has not said anything about my departure," he told reporters. "I want to stay at Real Madrid. I'm very happy at this club and in this city. I'm only looking towards this Saturday's game.

"Lucas Silva? I don't know anything about him; the club have not told me anything."

Illarramendi is already behind Toni Kroos, James Rodriguez and Isco in the Real pecking order.