Real Madrid are reportedly planning for another key signing.
Having already captured the likes of Jude Bellingham, Arda Guler, and Kylian Mbappe, the Spanish giants are building one of the best squads in world football.
One position Los Blancos haven’t had to worry too much about is their goalkeeper though. Thibaut Courtois, who joined from Chelsea in 2018, has been a loyal servant. The 32-year-old has experienced a trophy-littered six-year spell including lifting the 2022 and 2024 Champions League.
Real Madrid identify Thibaut Courtois replacement
However, with his deal expiring in 2026 and age very much against him, it’s unlikely Carlo Ancelotti will look to extend the number one’s deal, and that, according to a recent report from Fichajes, could open the door for one Premier League goalkeeper to arrive at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The shot-stopper in question? – Brighton’s Bart Verbruggen.
The 22-year-old, who joined the Seagulls from Anderlecht last summer, has enjoyed an excellent breakthrough. Not only has he become one of England’s most consistent performers, but he has also emerged as the Netherlands’ number one.
Consequently, catching the attention of Madrid president Florentino Perez, Brighton’s Verbruggen is now viewed as the ‘leading candidate’ to take the gloves over from Courtois.
The Dutchman is under contract at the AMEX until 2028 so Brighton’s owner Tony Bloom; a notoriously stringent negotiator, will demand the Seagulls make a considerable profit on the keeper, who they signed12 months ago for just £16.3 million.
Verbruggen’s first year on England’s south coast has seen him keep eight clean sheets from 29 games in all competitions.