Belgian shot-stopper keen on resolving his Chelsea future

Belgium international Thibaut Courtois is hoping to resolve his Chelsea future prior to this summer’s World Cup. The 26-year-old has just 15 months left on his existing deal with the Premier League holders.
In an exclusive report covered by Sporza, the goalkeeper highlighted his intention to discuss his future with the Blues ahead of Belgium’s World Cup campaign in Russia.
Courtois is currently contracted to the west Londoners until the summer of 2019, but he is keen to have his situation sorted out prior to the global tournament such that he can participate for Belgium with a ‘free mind’.
Should this not be the case, Courtois has reiterated that he would prefer to stay with the Blues for the final year of his contract, though the Blues’ hierarchy may have different plans in mind for the shot-stopper.
Courtois has been of interest to both Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid over the past year, with the latter often considered front-runners owing to Courtois’ past association in the Spanish La Liga.
The Belgian spent three seasons on loan (2011-2014) with Real’s arch-rivals Atletico Madrid in the Spanish capital, and he has since spoken fondly about his time in the wonderful city.
Courtois’ two children are currently resided in Madrid with his mother, and he has previously admitted that ‘his heart is set out’ on a possible return before the conclusion of his playing career.
Nonetheless, the player’s immediate focus will be on returning to competitive action following a hamstring niggle, which has recently seen him return from the Belgium national team camp.
Belgium coach Roberto Martinez had picked Courtois for the sole international friendly against Saudi Arabia on Tuesday night, but unfortunately, the ex-former Everton boss was not prepared to risk his goalkeeper.
As a result, the shot-stopper faces a race against time to return for next weekend’s London derby against Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League. The Blues are currently five points behind Spurs for the fourth position, and the game is a potentially must-win in order to maintain their Champions League hopes for next season.