.jpg)
3 hours ago
1
Real Madrid have a clear plan this summer as they want to strengthen their roster in key areas as they head into a new era under the leadership of Xabi Alonso. A lot has already changed at the Spanish capital with some great signings already in place while the others are progressing in the background.
Amid signing new players, Los Blancos are also keen on holding onto their star players for a long term. As per reports by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Real Madrid are keen to finalize a contract extension with their star custodian Thibaut Courtois.
The 33-year-old's current contract runs until June 2026 and as he enters the final year into his contract, Los Blancos are eager to wrap up a contract extension.
Despite Real Madrid's struggle last season, Courtois produced some splendid performances and therefore Alonso and Florentino Perez are in no doubt of keeping the experienced Belgian at the club. They are reportedly in advanced talks with the custodian to tie him down at Santiago Bernabeu for the foreseeable future.
However, the duration of the new contract remains a point of discussion and there are hardly any certainty over it. But some reports suggest that Los Blancos may offer him a two-year contract.
Returning from his ACL injury, Courtois featured in 30 league appearances and racked up 11 clean sheets and averaged 2.6 saves per game with an accuracy of 73%.
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Real Madrid are already lining up Courtois' successor
While Courtois still remains one of the best in the world even at 33, Real Madrid are opting for a new approach where they don't want to hold onto players way beyond their prime. Recently, the likes of Lucas Vazquez and Luka Modric were offloaded for the same reason.
So as per reports on La Gazzetta dello Sport, Los Blancos are monitoring Gianluigi Donnarumma's situation at Paris Saint-Germain. Along with Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and several Premier League clubs have shown interest in the 26-year-old Italian.
Real Madrid have identified Donnarumma as the perfect candidate to replace Courtois for quite a few years. With Courtois nearing 34, they need someone who can provide that stability between the sticks on a long-term basis.
Donnarumma was exceptional in PSG's triumph to their maiden UEFA Champions League. He produced some heroic performances for the Parisians and has propelled into one of the best custodians in world football.
With Los Blancos planning for their next generation under Alonso, Donnarumma could be the ideal replacement for Courtois. The 26-year-old goalkeeper is keen on seeking a new challenge and may opt for a league where he hasn't played previously as his current contract with PSG expires in 2026.
English (US)