La Liga
Thibaut Courtois, a 34-year-old goalkeeper and one of the best signings in the history of Real Madrid, has led the club to start looking for a possible successor for 2027 when his contract ends. Diogo Costa, Gregor Kobel, and Bart Verbruggen are among the candidates, although no signing is expected during this summer transfer window.
The planning anticipates the scenario that will unfold at the end of the next season. Courtois will continue as the starting goalkeeper under José Mourinho, but his age and contract duration necessitate studying alternatives in advance.
Real Madrid Prepares for the Future Without Thibaut Courtois
Real Madrid does not plan to replace Thibaut Courtois at this time. The Belgian will begin his ninth season at the club after joining from Chelsea in 2018, and his performance will determine if both parties negotiate another extension.
The goalkeeper's contract expires on June 30, 2027, when he will be 35 years old. The club aims to avoid a pressing need for succession and will spend the coming months analyzing prices, contracts, and availability.
The potential departure of Fran González to Sevilla also influences this planning. The academy player was one of the future options for the goalkeeping position, and Andriy Lunin is not seen as the sole anticipated answer to replace the starter.
Courtois suffered a left quadriceps muscle injury during Belgium's match against Spain in the World Cup quarter-finals. The goalkeeper had to leave the field but later confirmed that he no longer feels pain and will be able to rejoin preseason training.
His goal is to be available for the friendly against Fiorentina, scheduled for August 1 at 6:00 PM in Austria. The coaching staff will assess his condition during the initial training sessions before deciding whether he will be included in the squad.

Diogo Costa Supported by Mourinho
Diogo Costa, a 26-year-old goalkeeper from Porto, is one of the top names on the list. The Portuguese international has the backing of Mourinho, and his transfer could be around 60 million euros.
His relationship with Jorge Mendes would facilitate contacts if Real Madrid decides to move forward. Given his age, the club believes he can deliver immediate performance and assume the starting role for several seasons.
The cost remains the main obstacle. A 60 million investment would make the goalkeeper operation one of the most expensive in the club's planning, so the sports direction will evaluate Courtois' progress before making a decision.
Gregor Kobel and Bart Verbruggen Complete the List
Gregor Kobel, a 28-year-old goalkeeper from Borussia Dortmund, emerges as another alternative ready to compete upon arrival. The Swiss player is under contract until 2028 and has experience in the Bundesliga and the Champions League.
Bart Verbruggen, 23 years old, represents the option with the most room for development. The Brighton goalkeeper offers a different profile due to his age, although his inclusion would also depend on the price set by the English club.
The decision is not expected during this window. Real Madrid will continue to monitor Diogo Costa, Gregor Kobel, and Verbruggen during the season while assessing the physical condition and performance of Thibaut Courtois before addressing his succession in 2027.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El Real Madrid ya busca sustituto a Courtois
