Chelsea FC transfer rumours: Antonio Conte to sell Thibaut Courtois
As transfer rumours continue to swirl around the footballing world, the latest report claims that incoming Chelsea FC boss Antonio Conte is set to sell Thibaut Courtois.
The Premier League could be effectively settled by the end of this weekend, with a win over Manchester United handing Leicester City the crown. With that, transfer rumours continue to swirl with Antonio Conte reportedly set to sell Chelsea FC goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
The Mirror claims that the incoming Blues boss has given the green light for the move, which has surfaced as a consequence of the player’s poor performances and perceived unhappiness.
"Incoming Blues boss Conte is willing to offload the keeper if the club receive a reasonable offer. A summer move would suit Courtois too — he has indicated to Conte he wants to leave the Bridge."
Chelsea look destined for a major overhaul this summer as a new regime dawns. Many players are expected to go in and out of the Stamford Bridge doors and Courtois has been rumoured to be one of the more high-profile casualties.
The goalkeeper has not had the greatest of campaigns, failing to capitalise on the promise that he showed last season. After the Blues sold Petr Cech in order to confirm their commitment to Courtois, this season has been far from encouraging.
Furthermore, along with several other players, his desire has been called into question while reports of discontent in West London have done the rounds.
Despite being only 23-years-old, some have implored the club to cash in the Belgian this summer. Chelsea reportedly value him at over £70 million but an offer worth £50 million would certainly represent a decent deal. Especially with a need to fund numerous signings, Courtois could provide a useful windfall.
Of course, these are just tabloid stories, but it will be interesting to see who replaces the big man if he does move on. Asmir Begovic has repeatedly shown that he is more than sufficient at Premier League level, but Conte may target the likes of Jack Butland or Gianluigi Donnarumma instead.
Next: Three defensive partnerships Chelsea FC should use as the season winds down
What do you think of this rumour? Are you taking it seriously? Or are you going to toss it to the side? Let us know in the comments!