JASON DENAYER is good enough to play for Real Madrid, according to a Belgian legend and former manager.
The Celtic defender, on-loan from Manchester City, will return to England at the end of the season, but Ronny Deila is hoping to take the classy stopper to Parkhead again next season.
Denayer won his first cap for Belgium last month after Vincent Kompany was sent off in Israel.
Lorenzo Staelens - who won 70 caps for Belgium and played in three World Cups, before managing Bruges - reckons Denayer is destined for the very top.
He said: "Jason Denayer is a diamond and will be the future of the Belgium defence for years to come.
"I remember when Vincent Kompany made his debut for Belgium and he was praised for his maturity, well Denayer looked even better.
"It's still too early to say he's the new Kompany.
"But when I see the likes of Raphael Varane playing for Real Madrid, Denayer is already at that level and will pass it in no time if he keeps developing.
"I see him very soon being at a club like Real Madrid."
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