Real Madrid have earmarked Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois as their top transfer target as they look to replace Keylor Navas at the end of the season, claims The Independent.
Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea has long been linked with a move to Madrid but the Spain international is no longer Madrid’s first choice.
Zinedine Zidane’s side are considering a move for Athletic Club goalkeeper Kepa, who is out of contract at the end of the season and represents a significantly cheaper option than their other targets.
While Madrid are still interested in Kepa and De Gea, they are now focusing their efforts on prising Courtois away from Stamford Bridge.
Courtois’ children still live in Madrid after he spent three seasons on loan with Atletico Madrid and has already put on record he wants to return to Spain in the future.
Chelsea are determined to convince Courtois to sign a new long-term deal but the Belgium international has already shelved contract talks until the end of the season, which plays in Madrid’s hands further.
Courtois moved to cool exit talks earlier this month by insisting there is no reason why he wouldn’t renew with Chelsea, but Madrid are still circling for the 25-year-old.
