Wayne Rooney and David de Gea wanted by La Liga president Javier Tebas
Tuesday 17 November 2015 15:00, UK
La Liga president Javier Tebas admits he would like to see Wayne Rooney and David de Gea playing in Spain.
De Gea was close to a move to Real Madrid in the summer, but a deal was scuppered at the final hour of the Spanish deadline day and the goalkeeper has since signed a new deal at Old Trafford.
In an interview with Spanish newspaper AS, Tebas pinpointed the United pair as stars he wished played in La Liga.
"I'd like to have seen Rooney play in Spain," self-confessed Real Madrid fan Tebas said. "I'd like to have seen a Premier League icon play in our league, but there's also [Franck] Ribery.
"De Gea is one of the best goalkeepers in the world and I wish he played in our league, regardless of who for."
Tebas notes how quickly the likes of Brazilian Neymar and Colombian midfielder James Rodriguez have adapted to life in La Liga, and says Welshman Gareth Bale has been given more of an "international presence" since moving to Real Madrid in 2013.
"In light of how quickly they've [Neymar and James] adapted to a new environment, they've been a boost for the league.
"[Bale] has also been a big pull. He's a star of the highest level and having a big impact on Wales.
"In addition, Madrid have helped Bale to have more of an international presence."
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