Real Madrid have clinched the signing of goalkeeper Keylor Navas from Levante, the European champions said late Sunday.
Real have paid Levante the buy-out clause of 10 million euros (13.4 million dollars) for the 27 year-old Navas, who caught the eye playing for Costa Rica at the World Cup.
Navas joined Levante from Albacete in 2011. He has agreed to a six-year contract with Real.
His arrival will mean the departure of Diego Lopez, 32, who is reportedly poised to join Monaco. Navas will compete with Spain veteran Iker Casillas, 33, for the number one spot.
“It will be difficult to be first choice,” said Navas Sunday.
“I just want to work hard for Real Madrid, with humility, and learn a lot ... The six-year contract gives me tranquility. This is a great experience that I want to take advantage of.”
An online poll in Marca showed 84 per cent of readers preferring Navas to Casillas as first choice, while a similar poll in AS gave him 53 per cent.
He is Real’s third summer signing, after midfielders Toni Kroos and James Rodriguez.
According to media reports, the next target for Real is Monaco’s Colombian striker Radamel Falcao, who missed the World Cup through injury.