Chelsea consider move for international stopper as Courtois replacement

The transfer window is heating up for Chelsea in the final few days before Thursday’s deadline and major changes are on the horizon due to Thibaut Courtois’ desire to leave.

World Cup Golden Glove winner Courtois has refused to return to training ahead of the new season as he aims to push through a transfer to Real Madrid, which has left the Blues searching the market for a replacement.

Speculation has suggested a mega-deal to bring Jan Oblak to Stamford Bridge from Atletico Madrid but a more affordable option is being presented on the market, as Sky Sports report that Chelsea are considering a swoop for Stoke’s Jack Butland.

The England international would cost around £30m and Stoke are ready to approve an exit if that price is met, although they want the situation to be resolved quickly in order to give them time to land a replacement of their own.

Butland featured for Stoke in Sunday’s 3-1 defeat to Leeds United in the Championship, conceding a howler in the process.