Jokin Aperribay says he is grateful for Real Madrid’s policy not to buy out player contracts, and so hopeful of keeping Asier Illarramendi.
Madrid have been increasingly linked with a move for La Real’s 23-year-old midfielder, but with the Anoeta outfit seen as keen to keep hold of him.
“There is nothing. I haven’t much to say. La Real want Illarramendi to continue,” commented club President Aperribay to reporters today at the Spanish Football Federation headquarters for the 2013-14 fixture draw.
There have been reports that Madrid are trying to negotiate paying Illarramendi’s €30m buyout clause, but without having to front up the tax costs involved too.
“Will a deal be reached soon? That is something between Madrid and Illarramendi.
“I trust Madrid because they do not use clauses and we have to be thankful for this behaviour, but what I am sure is that for us the most important thing is the sporting year ahead.
“We have not spoken to Illarramendi, we just want him to join up with his teammates in training again and to be happy.
“We have not negotiated anything, we have just communicated to Madrid that we want the player to stay here.
“I won’t deny all of it, but it’s true that we are not doing anything at the moment.”
