Illarramendi: I want to stay at Real Madrid

The 24-year-old says he has heard no word of a potential deal for Lucas Silva and has no desire to force a move away from the club

Asier Illarramendi says he wants to stay and fight for his Real Madrid place despite the club's pursuit of Lucas Silva.

The European champions expect to complete the signing of the Cruzeiro midfielder in the coming days, with Illarramendi - already behind Toni Kroos, James Rodriguez and Isco in the Santiago Bernabeu pecking order - likely to be surplus to requirements should the Brazilian arrive this month.

However, the former Real Sociedad man says Madrid have not yet told him to find a new club and says he has no plans to demand a departure.

"Today, the club has not said anything about my departure," the 24-year-old told reporters on Thursday. "I want to stay at Real Madrid. I'm very happy at this club and in this city. I'm only looking towards this Saturday's game.

"Lucas Silva? I don't know anything about him, the club have not told me anything."

Illarramendi, who joined Madrid for a total fee of €39 million in July 2013, has made 21 appearances in all competitions so far this season.