Real Madrid’s Options to Secure the Future of Goalkeeping

Real Madrid has begun planning for the era after its Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, despite his contract running until 2027 and his firm hold on the primary position.

The anticipation within the club has increased after the goalkeeper refused to sign a long-term renewal in 2025, prompting the sports management to prepare a precise vision for the future.

According to the ‘Fichajes’ website, the royal club is closely monitoring Gregor Kobel, Borussia Dortmund’s goalkeeper, and Bart Verbruggen, Brighton’s goalkeeper, as the most prominent options to succeed Courtois if a decision is made to leave in the upcoming seasons.

Club officials view signing Gregor Kobel as an investment in immediate readiness due to his experience and leadership ability, while Bart Verbruggen offers a long-term option given his young age, notable development, and ability to start play from the back. However, Real Madrid is aware of the difficulty of these deals given their clubs’ insistence on their high market value.

The club is also considering the position of its goalkeeper Andriy Lunin, who has not yet been determined as the official successor, in addition to tracking the development of young goalkeeper Fran Gonzalez in the club’s academy. Real Madrid relies on a strategy of continuous monitoring, planning to move officially only after a final decision is made by Courtois regarding his future.