La Liga chief admits admiration of Rooney and De Gea

La Liga president Javier Tebas says he would love to see Manchester United duo Wayne Rooney and David de Gea play in Spain.

Goalkeeper De Gea was the subject of a lengthy transfer saga over the summer before a move to Real Madrid collapsed on deadline day, while the Mirror reported Barcelona were keeping tabs on England captain Rooney in May.

And Tebas highlighted the duo when talking about the players he wished played in La Liga.

“I’d like to have seen Rooney play in Spain,” the 52-year-old told Spanish newspaper AS.

“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.

“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.”