Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has revealed that Everton stopper Joel Robles is one of his closest friends in football.

De Gea and Joel both came through the youth system at Atletico Madrid, and the now Everton goalkeeper was back-up to De Gea during their time in the Spanish capital.

Whilst De Gea has become arguably the top goalkeeper in world football over the last few seasons, Joel has found it difficult to hold down a regular spot in the Everton XI.

Indeed, the 27-year-old has only made two appearances for the Toffees this season due to the presence of Jordan Pickford at Goodison Park.

De Gea has revealed that he generally has a good relationship with his fellow goalkeepers, but has said that Joel is the stopper he is closest to in the game.

De Gea told Inside United:

"You always get on well with your opposite number. Usually when you play against each other. But the one I know best is Joel [Robles], the Everton keeper.

"We were at Atletico Madrid together and we get on really well. So I’m closest to him as, with the rest, it’s more just when you are playing against them. Joel’s a top bloke."

De Gea is believed to be a long-term target for Real Madrid, but talk of the Spain international returning to Madrid has quietened in recent months.

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