Real Madrid would have to pay record fee to sign Courtois
Chelsea claim to value goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois at £73 million, as they look to end Real Madrid’s interest in the Belgium international.
Since taking first choice goalkeeper Petr Cech’s jersey, Courtois has impressed the Blues faithful, helping the club to both the League Cup and reclaiming the Premier League last season.
However, their dramatic, poor early-season form has meant Real have turned their attentions to the former Atletico Madrid loanee, having ended their interest in Manchester United’s David de Gea, believing they can entice him to the Santiago Bernabeu.
But Chelsea are not taking any chances in losing the 23-year-old shot stopper, and would demand £73 million – more than double the £23 million record fee for a goalkeeper – to allow him to move away from Stamford Bridge.
Courtios keen for Spain return
But despite the Blues wishing to keep their goalkeeper, the Belgian is looking for a return to Spain one day, after enjoying three successful seasons with Atletico.
And Courtois has admitted that he prefers playing for his national side: ”It is not only the fault of the [Chelsea] defence, although I prefer to play with the defence of the Red Devils.”
Chelsea have their no.1 contracted to the club until 2019, so therefore are in no pressure to make a decision about his future. Although Real boss Zinedine Zidane is already reported to have said he is happy with the goalkeepers currently at the club.
Keylor Navas, Real’s first choice ‘keeper is set to be handed a new contract at the club, less than a year on from looking like he would be heading to the Premier League with Manchester United, as part of a deal that was meant to see de Gea head the other way.
