Chelsea: Thibaut Courtois extension does not rule out exit

While Thibaut Courtois claims that he is ‘close’ to a contract extension, that does little to prevent him leaving Chelsea in the near future.

In what appears to be a move to appease Chelsea fans, Thibaut Courtois has stated that he is close to a new contract. The Belgian has reportedly been stalling an extension as Real Madrid have shown interest in signing him. However, a new deal does not mean that Courtois won’t leave in the summer.

The goalkeeper was directly asked about his contract situation and claimed that negotiations will take place sooner rather than later.

"We will wait a few weeks and then sit around the table – I’m happy at Chelsea and a deal is close…Despite the rumours and everything, I am focused on Chelsea and I’m happy here. – via The Telegraph"

Ever since rumours linked Real Madrid with a move for Courtois, he has played hard-ball with his contract. A player who was truly committed to the Blues would have quickly leveraged the rumours and negotiated a more lucrative and longer deal.

Courtois, though, has allowed his contract to run down and backed Chelsea into a corner. Blues fans have noticed the situation and have become frustrated with the Belgian’s antics. At almost every opportunity, he has failed to rubbish suggestions that he would pack his bags.

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That’s not supposed to be a criticism, though. When Real Madrid come calling, very few people turn the other way. The key here is to recognise that Courtois is probably looking to help the Blues get the best value in return for leaving.

With another year left to run on his deal, Real Madrid would have still needed to pay a large transfer fee. Signing a new contract just allows Chelsea to extract even more money from a club that has bottomless pockets.

Chelsea should not view a contract agreement as a commitment to stay in West London and nor should the fans. The club should ensure that they have contingency plans in place to replace one of the game’s finest goalkeepers.

Perhaps Courtois will stay for another few years? In football, anything is possible. However, the Blues should assume the obvious and start scouting goalkeepers who can fill the Belgian’s boots.

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