Chelsea news: Thibaut Courtois lifts lid on new Blues contract and Real Madrid speculation
THIBAUT COURTOIS has claimed he sees no reason why he will not sign a new deal with Chelsea, putting paid to talk of a move to Real Madrid.
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Thibaut Courtois put Chelsea fans on tenterhooks this week when he told Spanish media he was “attracted” by a move to Spain.
The Belgium international has long been linked with a return to Madrid, where his children live and he previously spent three years on loan with Atletico.
Real Madrid is the rumoured destination this time around, with Keylor Navas’ days looking numbered at the Bernabeu.
However, Courtois has allayed fears he will be leaving Stamford Bridge any time soon, claiming he fully expects to agree a new deal with the Blues when the time is right.
“It is not always easy [being away from his children].” Courtois said.
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“I love my children to death. When you miss them, you are sometimes wondering, ‘Shouldn't I play in Spain in the next few years?’
“That's why I want to take my time to make a decision on that contract extension.
“In the media they're always talking about money. I'm not denying that it plays a role, but everything has to be in its right place.
“If I sign a new contract, I will want to say to Chelsea, ‘Look, I commit myself for X amount of years. I am happy here. I like playing for the club, I like London.’”
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Courtois is out of contract with Chelsea in June 2019 and is said to have rejected the club’s initial renewal offer in May.
The Belgian is said to want an improved bid, putting him on par with Manchester United’s David de Gea who takes home around £200,000 a week.
And should a suitable deal be tabled, the 25-year-old has admitted he would have no hesitation about signing.
“My private situation is always gnawing a little bit, but for the rest I'm feeling very good at Chelsea.” he added.
“I don't see any reason why I won't sign a new deal. I just want to consider all options. Everything has to be right.
“It's not the right moment to make hastily decisions. Not for Chelsea, not for me.
“Within a couple of months we will sit around the table again and talk openly. There's no pressure, apart from the media. The clubs knows that too.
“Basically I want an agreement before the end of the season. Normally with Chelsea."
