Albiol not going anywhere

Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho is keen to keep hold of defender Raul Albiol, Marca has revealed.

Following one of the most successful seasons in club’s recent history, the Portuguese coach is desperate to keep the current squad together and possibly add few more signings.

After signing a new deal with los Blancos, Mourinho has persuaded Gonzalo Higuain and Antonio Adan to remain at the club and now aims to do the same with Raul Albiol.

The Spain international currently acts as a back up to Sergio Ramos and Pepe, but the former Chelsea boss believes he has what it takes to compete for a starting place.

Mourinho is aware that he would need to spend a great deal of cash to bring someone of Albiol’s quality and experience to Santiago Bernabeu and, therefore, wants to keep the 26-year-old at the club for as long as possible.

Albiol has featured in just 10 La Liga games this season, while he made a total of seven appearances in the Champions League and Copa del Rey.