According to Marca, Keylor Navas is seemingly keen on seeking a move away from Santiago Bernabeu this summer. The Costa Rican international is close to joining Paris Saint-Germain, who are believed to be the frontrunners in his pursuit. It is reported that the two clubs are nearing an agreement and the move could soon be finalised. In fact, Real Madrid have already started looking for a replacement.
Navas’ spell at Real Madrid
Navas initially joined Real Madrid back in 2014, in a €10m move from Levante. He was initially brought in as an alternative for Iker Casillas. He featured in only six matches during his debut campaign at the Bernabeu. But, following the departure of Casillas in 2015, Navas became a first-choice goalkeeper for Real Madrid.
The Costa Rican international made 34 league appearances during the 2015/16 campaign and played a key role as Los Blancos lifted the Champions League. His performances in between the sticks were also pivotal as they secured the coveted tournament three times in a row from 2015 to 2018.
During his ongoing five year spell at the club, Navas has made 162 competitive appearances for Real Madrid. However, the arrival of Thibaut Courtois last summer has seen the 32-year-old lose his place as a regular starter in goal, with the goalkeeper making only ten league appearances last season.
Should Real Madrid let go of Navas?
Offloading Navas might not be a bad ideal from Real Madrid’s perspective. Courtois is currently the undisputed number ten for Los Merengues and is unlikely to lose his place to the Costa Rican this season. That being said, they must secure an immediate replacement, especially with the promising Andrii Lunin moving to Real Valladolid on loan.
But either way, Navas has played very little football within the past 12 months. His departure could help the Spanish giants cut down on wages, especially following the arrival of Eden Hazard, Eder Militao and Luka Jovic, among many others. At the age of 32, it’s needless to say that the ex-Levante star is nearing the final phase of his career and a move away from the Bernabeu could make sense.
PSG, in particular, would be an ideal destination for the Real Madrid shot-stopper. The French giants are devoid of goalkeeping options at the moment after the departures of Kevin Trapp and Gianluigi Buffon. Navas, in that regard, could provide some depth and competition to Alphonso Areola in goal.
