Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois nearly joined Real Madrid during the January transfer window but is now speaking to French giants PSG, according to RTBF.
Since returning to Stamford Bridge following an impressive loan spell with Spanish giants Atletico Madrid in 2014, Courtois has established himself as one of the world’s best goalkeepers and his performances have earned him admirers throughout the world.
Real Madrid are looking to replace their current first-choice keeper Keylor Navas at the end of the season, with Courtois and Manchester United’s David De Gea being considered as replacements.
However, according to recent reports, it appears that the £45m-rated Courtois is open to moving to Madrid. We may not qualify for next season’s Champions League considering that we are currently in the 5th position in the Premier League standings. In addition to this, Courtois’ children live in Madrid and if he moves to Real, he will likely get the chance to spend more time with them.
The Belgian’s father Thierry is also said to have had talks with Madrid over a potential move. A source said:
“In the course of the discussions, Thibaut insisted in particular on a culture of winning that is still missing at PSG.
“PSG has not yet won major competitions. It is not anchored in its DNA as it can be in other major European clubs. And that is what scares Thibaut.
RTBF’s source revealed that Courtois nearly signed for Real in January.
“The two sides had agreed,” they added.
“And then, at the time of finalizing the final details, the transaction was not made. But it was not really lacking much.
“The track leading to Real is clearly open for the next summer transfer window.”
The source added that PSG have refused to comment on the links between them and Courtois. The shot-stopper is, however, said to be sceptical about joining the French giants as he is unsure about whether they have what is required to go on and win the Champions League.
