Real Madrid GM Jorge Valdano insists they want to hold onto striker Gonzalo Higuain.

Higuain struck a hat-trick in last night's 4-1 thrashing of Real Valladolid, but is baulking at agreeing new contract terms with Madrid.

"He [Higuain] has made a tremendous reaction, because he is a high class player and character. He has suffered a lot this week because we have done him an injustice. He is accused of being selfish when a striker by definition is greedy. You can not be condemned for one moment after three impeccable years," Valdano said.

"We are talking with him, but we have much plenty of time, so we are calm. We would like not only that he would renew but to finish his career here."