Ruud van Nistelrooy has backed Sevilla striker Alvaro Negredo to make a shock return to Real Madrid.

The outspoken striker told AS that he believes Negredo "has Real Madrid in his heart".

Negredo decided to join high-flying Sevilla for €15 million, with Real having an option to rebuy the player in the first two years for €17 million.

"During the pre-season I told Negredo that I really like his style. I've seen him train, play and I love what I see. In fact, he's showing his quality at Sevilla. In a way, playing like I do: he moves, touches and finishes. He's a humble kid, whose heart is in Madrid and he is also part of the youth setup," van Nistelrooy said in an interview with AS.

Van Nistelrooy has also refused to consider whether Negredo's return is dependent on the Dutchman's future at the Bernabeu.

"I do not think about next year. I think about today and my goal is to play, score goals and return to the level I had before the injury. And if I get back to that level we will see what happens," he said.