Courtois set to leave The Bridge

LONDON. — Chelsea star Thibaut Courtois is closing in on a move to Real Madrid after agreeing terms with the Spanish La Liga soccer giants.

The Belgian has one year remaining on his deal at Stamford Bridge and the Belgian has shown little intimation in recent months that he will extend his contract. Real Madrid have a long-held interest in Courtois and have prioritised a move for the Belgium international over Manchester United star David De Gea. Chelsea are already looking at replacements for Courtois and would prefer to get their man before allowing the Belgian to go.

However, his move to the Bernabeu looks a foregone conclusion now with Madrid agreeing a contract with Courtois. Chelsea drew up a shortlist of Kasper Schmeichel, Jack Butland and Alisson Becker as potential replacements for Courtois. Madrid are eyeing a replacement for Costa Rica international Keylor Navas and are also looking at Tottenham shot-stopper Hugo Lloris. However, the Bernabeu outfit’s priority is Courtois and they have now finalised an agreement with the Belgian international’s camp. Madrid are aiming to complete the final piece of the puzzle with Chelsea but nothing has been agreed between the two clubs yet.

If a move for Courtois falls through this summer, Madrid will look to acquire the services of fellow Premier League star Lloris. — Reuters.