Chelsea are poised for a major departure in the transfer market, leaving Maurizio Sarri with work to do to bolster his squad ahead of the Premier League’s kick-off in less than a month.
Spanish outlet Marca state Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is ‘very close’ to sealing a move from Stamford Bridge to Real Madrid, with Chelsea braced for disappointment in their attempts to retain the services of the World Cup’s golden glove winner.
Courtois, who’s young family still leaves in Madrid following his stint with Atletico, has entered the final 12 months of his contract in west London and has shown no desire to extend his stint with the FA Cup winners.
Chelsea will earn a reduced fee for 26-year-old Courtois due to his contract situation, with the report adding that a deal will not exceed €40m – a figure that is significantly lower than the Blues would ideally like to earn.
