Real Madrid GM Sacchi ready to back Lopez as Caesar replacement

Real Madrid general manager Arrigo Sacchi has been convinced by youngster Diego Lopez that he can be Iker Casillas' understudy next season.

With Caesar leaving Real in the summer, Sacchi is considering his options for a backup goalkeeper for Casillas and is ready to settle on 23 year-old Lopez.

The youngster has impressed Sacchi since the Italian's arrival before Christmas. After an outstanding last season with Real 'B', Lopez has been elevated to third-string keeper this term and will move up again once Caesar leaves Madrid.

"I am ready to confront this challenge. I have been working for many years to reach the first team and now that I am close I am going to give everything to win the confidence of the coaches," said Lopez.

"I am proud that the club is thinking about me to fill the vacancy of Caesar, a great goalkeeper whom I admire a lot."