Real set to make a move for Courtois?
Real Madrid are considering a summer swoop for Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
|||Real Madrid are considering a summer swoop for Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
The Belgian’s future is in doubt as he looks to quit Stamford Bridge in search of Champions League football next season.
Chelsea will demand £65million for Courtois and that valuation is likely to prove a stumbling block, but there is a desire at the club to conclude a deal, which could work to Real’s advantage as they try to drive down the price.
Returning to Madrid, where Courtois spent three seasons playing for Atletico on loan from Chelsea, is the 23-year-old’s preference if he is to leave.
And Real are ready to pounce after failing with a move for Manchester United’s David de Gea last summer.
Incoming Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has been doing homework on his new players and Sportsmail understands the Italian has concerns about Courtois’ attitude after seeking reports from trusted sources.
Meanwhile, Courtois (right), who suffered a serious knee injury in training earlier this season, has doubts about the methods of the club’s goalkeeping coach Christophe Lollichon.
Indeed, the Belgium No 1 has expressed his dismay to staff at the club’s Cobham HQ, something that has got back to Conte. Lollichon is almost certain to remain at Stamford Bridge next season and Conte fears the awkward dynamic between Courtois and the coach could cause a headache for him.
Asked about the conflict between Courtois and Lollichon, current Chelsea manager Guus Hiddink said: ‘They’re working with the group, they’re working as goalies do normally.
‘They are different personalities but they do well. They are very professional, they work hard and I think that the most important thing is that Courtois recently said he is very happy at Chelsea and he will stay at the club.’ – Daily Mail