Real Madrid keeper Keylor Navas wants leading role despite likely arrival of David de Gea

Real Madrid goalkeeper Keylor Navas says he hopes to be the number one at the Santiago Bernabeu next season even though recent reports claim Los Blancos are about to complete the signing of Manchester United star David de Gea.

The Costa Rica international moved to the Champions League holders in the summer of 2014 after being one of the sensations of the Brazil World Cup.

Having previously garnered a reputation as one of the best stoppers in La Liga during his time at Levante, Real Madrid agreed to meet his £8m ($13m) release clause to secure his services following the departure of Diego Lopez to Milan.

And with Casillas mainly featuring for Champions League and Copa del Rey matches during the previous season, Navas was expected to become the number one at the Santiago Bernabeu.

But despite Casillas being under scrutiny during the whole of this term, Navas has only started six La Liga games during the current campaign.

The 28-year-old star has expressed his frustration about the lack of playing time but hopes to turn the situation around next season despite the expected arrival of De Gea.

"Just because I don't complain to the press doesn't mean that I'm not having a tough time. I wanted to get the chance to play more. I never planned to be a substitute, but I've had to go through a tough year and I've tried to handle it as well as possible and remain professional. When I have played I've always tried my best. My attitude and drive have helped me to deal with it," Navas said, according to AS, after playing in Real Madrid's 4-1 victory over Espanyol on 17 May.

"I hope that next year will be different and I will be able to earn a regular start. I have a contract for another five years and I have a positive mentality. It's going to be tough, but I'm not giving up. I hope my chance will come sometime. Competition is good because it helps me to grow."