Reports: Chelsea superstar desperate to join Real Madrid

What's the story?

It is no secret that Real Madrid are interested in signing a top-class goalkeeper. The All Whites have been heavily linked with a move for Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, but now latest reports from Spanish outlet Don Balon (via The Express) claim that Madrid players including captain Sergio Ramos would prefer Chelsea shot-stopper, Thibaut Courtois, instead.

Also, the report interestingly goes on to claim that the Belgian goalkeeper is desperate to make a move to the Spanish capital. With Courtois' contract running out in June 2019, Los Blancos are confident of completing the deal for a relatively low price of around £40 million.

In case you didn't know...

Courtois is widely considered to be among the best goalkeepers in world football at the moment

Courtois has been heavily linked to Madrid in the last two years and with no sign of a new contract, Madrid are ready to swoop in and make the dependable Belgian their long-term number 1.

Courtois has always been open about making a move and when asked last summer about staying at Chelsea long term, he replied:

“I do not say yes, I do not say no…I do not know. We must see what Chelsea want.”

The Chelsea goalkeeper enjoyed a hugely successful spell at Real Madrid's rivals Atletico Madrid from 2011-2014 where he made 154 appearances and kept 76 clean sheets.

The heart of the matter

Keylor Navas has come under increasing pressure and criticism in the last few months and it is quite clear that Los Blancos are on the lookout for a dependable shot-stopper. While Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga is certainly talented, there is no denying the fact that Courtois is at a higher level than him at the moment.

One of the most consistent goalkeepers in the world, Courtois along with David De Gea is arguably the best goalkeeper in the Premier League. Also, the Belgian already has experience of playing in La Liga and the signing would make a lot of sense for Zidane and Real Madrid.

Video

Some of Courtois' saves are absolutely incredible!

Author's take

With the contract of Courtois running out in June 2019, Chelsea have a problem. The former Atletico Madrid goalkeeper is reportedly desperate to go back to Spain and the Blues might be powerless to stop him if Madrid come with a big money bid in either the January or the summer transfer window.