Thibaut Courtois Set For Chelsea Contract Talks Despite Interest In Madrid

Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois will will discuss new contract talks this month despite admitting that his “heart lies in Madrid”.

The 25-year-old, whose current contract terminates next summer, has been targeted by the European Champions.

And Courtois admits the lure of a return to the Spanish capital would be difficult to desist because he had a three-year spell with the Real’s city rivals Atletico – he spent three years at Real’s city rivals and he also has his children over in Spain.

Speaking to Belgian publication Sport/Foot Magazine, Courtois said: “We (Chelsea) agreed to meet again in February because the club had more urgent issues to deal with in January.

“I am under contract until 2019. Normally, there is no problem, I will (extend). I am happy here and I see a direction that still wants to win a lot of titles.

“My personal situation is related to the city of Madrid. My two children live there with their mum. I have my daughter every day on FaceTime.

“Whenever I have the opportunity, I try to make a return trip to Spain. As a situation, it is not always easy. Yes, my heart is in Madrid.

“I do not know (if there is interest from Real). If they want me, they have to contact Chelsea. We’ll see. But they never did it.

“What is certain is that I will one day return to Madrid. I love Spain, I loved the city, I spent three wonderful years there.

“If Real is really interested, my personal situation could affect (it), yes. The family aspect, it is priceless.

“But I repeat to you that, for the moment, I’m busy talking to Chelsea to extend.”

Courtois and his Chelsea team-mates are currently on a three-day break from training and will return on Friday to prepare for the home match against West Brom on February 12.

Manager Antonio Conte found his position in the spotlight following two straight Premier League defeats, including Monday’s 4-1 loss at Watford.

However, Press Association Sport understands there have been no board meetings to discuss the Italian’s future and the club are not in talks with any potential replacements.