Topics: Thibaut Courtois, Real Madrid, Premier League, Bundesliga, La Liga
Real Madrid are preparing for the future exit of Thibaut Courtois, according to reports, with several names being mentioned as potential replacements, including Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
Since arriving at the Bernabeu in 2018, Courtois has cemented his status as one of the best goalkeepers in the world.
In fact, the 33-year-old is deemed 'untouchable' and the club still believe they have the world's best goalkeeper at their disposal for at least one more season, but doubts have been raised long-term.
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.
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"They can see his end is closer than they'd like, and they're already eyeing options," added Picon. "They've been on edge ever since they offered him a two-year extension in 2025, but he preferred to go year by year."
So, who are Madrid looking at as potential replacements? Andriy Lunin, who currently plays second fiddle to Courtois, has plenty of admirers at Los Blancos but some believe that the Ukrainian is not as reliable as their current number one.
Barcelona's Joan García and Liverpool's Giorgi Mamardashvili were said to be of interest, but both were unwilling to wait for Courtois to leave.
At the moment, two names are being admired by Madrid's recruitment team. Gregor Kobel, who has been an ever-present for Borussia Dortmund this season, is one of them alongside Brighton's Bart Verbruggen.
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, so Madrid may have to act quickly if they want to strike a deal for the 23-year-old.
Before renewing his deal last summer, Courtois said he wanted to retire at Real Madrid.
“I hope I can renew," he said. "I’m very happy at Real Madrid, playing here is a dream and every year that passes is another dream. I’m at the club’s complete disposal, they know I want to stay and hopefully retire here."
