Real Madrid targets to replace Thibaut Courtois emerge

"They can see his end is closer than they'd like, and they're already eyeing options. They've been on edge ever since they offered him a two-year extension in 2025, but he preferred to go year by year."

"A report from journalist Jorge C Picon suggests the Belgian, who has a contract until 2027, is 'starting to feel the typical physical strains of the position', which have been 'worsened' by his knee injuries."

"Since joining the Premier League club from Anderlecht in 2023, Verbruggen has kept 22 clean sheets in 94 appearances for the Seagulls. Several clubs are reportedly chasing Verbruggen, including Bayern Munich, Tottenham and Chelsea."

Real Madrid is preparing for Thibaut Courtois's eventual departure despite considering him untouchable for the current season. The 33-year-old Belgian goalkeeper, contracted until 2027, is experiencing physical strains typical of the position, compounded by recurring knee injuries. Madrid's recruitment team is actively evaluating potential successors. Current backup Andriy Lunin is considered by some as unreliable compared to Courtois. Barcelona's Joan García and Liverpool's Giorgi Mamardashvili were previously targeted but declined to wait. Madrid now focuses on Gregor Kobel from Borussia Dortmund and Brighton's Bart Verbruggen, a 23-year-old with 22 clean sheets in 94 Premier League appearances. Multiple clubs including Bayern Munich, Tottenham, and Chelsea are also pursuing Verbruggen, creating urgency for Madrid's potential acquisition.

Read at SPORTbible