Real Madrid have a clear plan this summer as they look to strengthen their squad in key areas as they head into a new era under Xabi Alonso. Plenty has already changed in the Spanish capital – with some vital signings already in place – with others progressing in the background.
Alongside signing new players, Los Blancos are also working to retain some of their current star players. As per reports from transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the club are keen to finalize a contract extension with No.1 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 want to wrap up an extension.
Despite their struggles last season, Courtois produced some splendid performances and Alonso and Florentino Perez are in no doubt over keeping the experienced Belgian. They are reportedly in advanced talks with the veteran stopper, to try and tie him down at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu for the foreseeable future.
However, the duration of the new contract remains a point of discussion, with the potential to break their structure, to offer him a two-year contract.
After returning from an ACL injury, Courtois featured in 30 league appearances with 11 clean sheets and averaged 2.6 saves per game with an accuracy of 73%.
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Real Madrid line 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 as they don’t want to hold onto players beyond their prime.
Lucas Vazquez and Luka Modric have already moved on as an example of this.
As per reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport, Los Blancos are monitoring Gianluigi Donnarumma’s situation at Paris Saint-Germain, with Bayern Munich and several Premier League clubs also showing interest in the 26-year-old Italian.
Donnarumma was exceptional in PSG’s triumph to their maiden UEFA Champions League title with heroic performances for the Parisians which has propelled into one of the best keepers in world football.
With Los Blancos planning for the next generation under Alonso, Donnarumma could be the ideal replacement for Courtois. The 26-year-old goalkeeper is keen on a new challenge, and may opt for a league where he hasn’t played previously, as his current contract with PSG expires in 2026.
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