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Update On Iker Casillas: Out Up To 12 Weeks, Will Miss United UCL Ties; Diego Lopez Signed From Sevilla

A fast and furiously fitting end to one of the most tumultuous weeks in recent memory for Real Madrid, as Iker Casillas is officially ruled out for up to 12 weeks after undergoing surgery on his injured left hand. The team wasted absolutely no time in securing a veteran replacement, signing Diego Lopez from Sevilla.

Denis Doyle

The Guardian is reporting that Iker will be out up to three months after undergoing surgery to repair the fractured bone in his left hand. No matter what you think of his recent form (and some in our community have raised legitimate questions and concerns) this is a huge blow for Los Blancos as they get ready to face a high-scoring Manchester United side in the knockout-stages of the Champions League in a few weeks time. Casillas's presence, stature and leadership will be sorely missed, particularly at Old Trafford.

According to the Guardian:

"The operation has gone well," the surgeon who carried out the procedure, Miguel Del Cerro, reported after inserting two screws in the keeper's hand. "The recovery period is eight to 12 weeks. It is best to wait and not talk about time periods."

We can all only wish the Captain the speediest of recoveries. His absence will certainly be felt.

The club acted quickly to sign a quality veteran replacement, with Real Madrid.com officially announcing that they have agreed to terms with Sevilla over the transfer of Diego Lopez.

Lopez has signed a deal that will keep him at the Bernabeu through the end of 2016-17 season. This will be the keeper's second stint with Real Madrid, having last featured for the club in 2007 before moving on to Villarreal. The fee is reported to be around 4 million Euros.

I think this is a solid move for Madrid considering the available options. They get a keeper familiar with the club as well as someone who has plenty of experience playing domestically and in Europe.

What do you think Madridistas?

Solid. Desperation. Best Available. Did What They Could. Does Anyone Have a Corkscrew?

I was paying close attention to the rumors running rampant this morning that the club, most-likely at Mou's behest, were tracking QPR's Julio Cesar and I wasn't sure what to think.

What a week! My head is still spinning. Looking forward to the comments.

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