Ahead of Manchester United’s Europa League semi-final against Celta Vigo, Spanish newspaper Marca have been speaking to Ander Herrera.

Given one of Marca’s favourite topics is David De Gea, and the Manchester United goalkeeper moving to Real Madrid, Herrera was always going to be asked about the situation.

Marca put it straight to Herrera: “Is De Gea going to Real Madrid? You are very friendly with him.”

“Hopefully not,” replied Herrera. “He is the best goalkeeper of the Premier League for me, and for many people. He was named again the best goalkeeper of the league, and already it goes four years.

“He’s been at the club for six years. He’s very close to the number of games Van der Sar played, and can become a legend. People here love him very much. I hope so (that he stays). There are few goalkeepers in the world who give you points and David is one of them.”

Whilst it’s not the answer Marca will have hoped for, it has to be the one they expected, Herrera wasn’t likely to endorse De Gea leaving Manchester United for Real Madrid.

Marca expect another attempt from Madrid to sign De Gea, during the next summer transfer window, and some Manchester United fans are already resigned to the likelihood of their goalkeeper leaving.

However, especially given what happened last time, until De Gea is wearing a Real Madrid shirt, the deal isn’t done, and Jose Mourinho may well be in the mood for a transfer battle over his No.1 goalkeeper.