La Liga
Thibaut Courtois continues to be untouchable as a Real Madrid player, but the white club is already working on one of the most delicate decisions about his future. The sports management has started to study possible successors for the Belgian goalkeeper, whose recent injury with his national team has reopened the debate on the goalkeeping position.
At Valdebebas, there is no intention to immediately make a change. However, as journalist Miguel 'Latigo' Serrano claims, his physical issues have led the club to intensify the monitoring of Bart Verbruggen, Gregor Kobel, and Diogo Costa, three players with international experience and different characteristics.
Thibaut Courtois remains indisputable, but his physical condition is a concern
The performance of Thibaut Courtois leaves no doubts. When available, the Belgian continues to provide security, leadership, and crucial saves in the most demanding matches. The concern arises from his physical continuity. The 34-year-old goalkeeper has missed 26 official matches in the last two seasons: 15 in the first season after his serious knee injury and another 11 during the last season.
His withdrawal due to muscle discomfort during the World Cup match between Belgium and Spain raised alarms once again. The final scope will determine if the club sticks to its roadmap or speeds up the search for a goalkeeper during the season.
The club also does not see Andriy Lunin as the definitive heir. The Ukrainian is considered a reliable backup, but internally there are doubts about his ability to assume the starting role for several years.
Bart Verbruggen and Gregor Kobel lead Real Madrid's list
The primary candidate based on youth and potential is Bart Verbruggen. The Dutchman is 23 years old, stands 1.93 meters tall, and is under contract with Brighton until June 2028.
His performance in the Premier League, dominance in the box, and good ball-handling skills have also piqued the interest of clubs like Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain. His market value is around 40 million euros, although Brighton could demand a higher amount.
The second name is Gregor Kobel, an alternative for immediate impact. The Swiss international will turn 29 years old in December and is also contracted until 2028, this time with Borussia Dortmund.
During the last Bundesliga season, he kept 15 clean sheets and saved 72.4% of the shotsfaced. His experience in European knockouts and consistency make him a less risky option, though his price would also be high.

Diogo Costa gains momentum due to Mourinho's influence
The third option points to Diogo Costa, a name reportedly supported by José Mourinho. The Portuguese coach knows the Porto captain well and particularly values his personality, footwork, and international experience.
The goalkeeper is 26 years old, turning 27 in September, and recently extended his contract until June 2030. His contractual situation complicates any negotiation, with a release clause set at 60 million euros.
Furthermore, he is represented by Gestifute, Jorge Mendes's agency, a circumstance that could facilitate contacts if the Madrid coach insists on his signing. Among the three candidates, he represents an intermediate age between Verbruggen's potential and Kobel's experience.
Real Madrid aims to act cautiously and avoid hasty investments. The priority is to await the Belgian's medical diagnosis, evaluate his progress during the season, and monitor the market before making a final decision.
Thibaut Courtois' succession does not seem imminent, but it already occupies a prominent place in Real Madrid's planning. Bart Verbruggen, Gregor Kobel, and Diogo Costa top a list that may change depending on the Belgian's physical condition and Mourinho's sporting preferences.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El Real Madrid ya busca sustituto para Courtois
