Leeds United managed to seal the signing of Kiko Casilla just before it was announced that Keylor Navas had picked up an injury and would be facing a spell out.
With Thibaut Courtois also having a couple of injury issues recently, it was very good timing from the Championship club.
In Spain, Victor Orta’s named popped up a couple of times, with Leeds’ transfer chief being given credit for persuading Real Madrid to part with their goalkeeper for no transfer fee.
Now Casilla himself has made it clear just how big Orta was in the move, and how he worked to convince him the transfer to England was the right step to take.
Speaking to Spanish newspaper Marca, the stopper revealed a special trip from Orta to speak to him face to face.
“Victor Orta also came to Madrid, especially to see me and to explain the project, what Bielsa wanted from me, what Leeds is, and between one thing and another everything made me think it over and here I am. I wanted to take a chance, to feel the pressure of playing again, on weekends, and how football is lived here, to try this experience.”
Unfortunately, Casilla didn’t reveal more about Orta’s description of Leeds United, but given what usually get the European media excited, it was probably about the club’s fall from grace, the history at Elland Road, and the supporters who continue to flock to see the Whites and have never given up hope the big time will return.
It will be hoped that Casilla can be a part of that.
