Real Madrid have been linked with Chelsea’s Thibaut Courtois.
Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois says he is in talks with the club over a new deal despite heavy speculation linking him with a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid, AS reports.
The Belgium international recently spoke in an interview of his desire to move back to Madrid, telling reporters how his family was based in the Spanish capital and the benefits of being closer to them.
Courtois originally spent three seasons on loan at Atletico Madrid, but it is Los Colchoneros’ city rivals Real Madrid who have emerged as the main suitors for his signature this summer.
Speaking after his side’s 1-1 with Barcelona, however, Courtois explained how he is in talks with the reigning Premier League champions over a new contract, although he admits a switch to Madrid is still a possibility.
“I’m not clear about my future, what I said that my heart is in Madrid was misunderstood,” Courtois told AS.
“I have two children in Spain, in Madrid, and that’s not easy. I have one year left (here) and I’m happy and talking to Chelsea about a renewal.”
Real Madrid are likely to be in the market for a new shot-stopper this summer, as they look to replace the ageing Keylor Navas with a goalkeeper they can count on for the foreseeable future.
Manchester United’s David de Gea is a renowned target, but Zinedine Zidane’s side may have better luck with Courtois considering his existing contract at Chelsea expires in the summer of 2019.
The 25-year-old originally joined the Blues from Belgian side Genk in 2011 and, after three years in Madrid, he returned to West London and became the club’s number one ahead of the popular Petr Cech.
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