Chelsea are keen to convince young goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois to sign a new contract, and according to The Standard, Blues officials have met with the player’s representatives for more talks over his future at the Bridge.
The Belgian international joined Chelsea from Genk for a reported fee of £7m in 2011, but he has yet to make an appearance for the Blues, and is currently in his third season on loan at La Liga side Atletico Madrid.
The 21-year-old revealed earlier this season that he would only consider signing a contract extension should he be given a fair chance at taking Petr Cech’s place in the side next term.
The report says that the matter has now been personally taken care of by Roman Abramovich’s senior adviser and executive board member Marina Granovskaia.
Chelsea have assured Courtois that he will get the opportunity to battle for the No 1 jersey with Petr Cech next season, but the Belgian in unsure whether that would be the case, as he might end up dropping back to the bench, which he doesn’t want, especially after spending three impressive campaigns with the Rojiblancos.
Cech has been one of the best performers of the season for the Blues, and at 31, he still has plenty to offer the West London side; and with a contract until 2017, it remains to be seen whether Courtois will be able to oust the Czech international.
Atletico Madrid are one of the title contenders in Spain this season and coach Diego Simeone is looking to sign Courtois permanently. The situation is further complicated by Chelsea wanting to sign Atletico striker Diego Costa, who scored in the 1-0 victory over Granada last night.
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