Sergio Ramos Trains With Real, Despite United Link

MADRID, Sporting Alert – Manchester United target Sergio Ramos returns to training with his Real Madrid teammates on Saturday as new manager Rafa Benitez starts preparation for the new season.

Ramos took part in the first of the two training sessions planned for Saturday by Benitez at the Ciudad RealMadrid training complex, with the second set to begin at 7pm CEST, the club reports.

The defender joined his teammates in an intense running session before shifting the attention to some ball work.

“There was a high level of intensity during the Whites’ morning session at Ciudad Real Madrid,” reports realmadrid.com.

Ramos has been linked away from the Santiago Bernabéu, with Manchester United being his preferred destination.

However, the two clubs are yet to reach an agreement for the Spain international which means he must continue his duties with Real Madrid.

It is widely reported that the center-back has specifically asked to join Man United in this transfer window after his club failed to offer him a new and improved extension on his current contract.

But it is understood Benitez wants the player to stay at the club and is willing to work with some of his demands if it helps to persuade him to stay in the Spanish capital.

AS, in the meantime, is also reporting that experienced goalkeeper Iker Casillas was not a part of Saturday’s session after he reported at the Real Madrid training base almost one hour after the rest of the squad started pre-season practice.

According to the report, the Spanish captain is currently finalizing a move to Porto and everything could be completed by Monday.

AS says the 34-year-old was probably at Valdebebas to say his goodbyes to his teammates, adding that his move to Portugal “is all-but confirmed” and the parties involved are now getting set to make an official announcements about the transfer.

It is understood that Casillas has already signed a two-year deal with Porto.

This could pave the way for Real Madrid completing a move for Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea later this summer.