Real Madrid only one step away from renewing the contract of Belgian international | OneFootball

Real Madrid have had a knack for losing players at the end of their contracts lately, as evidenced by the departures of Luka Modric, Nacho Fernandez and Dani Carvajal, among others.

But the club are keen on avoiding the same scenario for the team’s star player, Thibaut Courtois, whose contract at Santiago Bernabeu expires at the end of the season.

It was reportedly recently that Real Madrid are looking at Diogo Costa as a potential replacement for Courtois, in case he leaves the club. But it appears Courtois is not leaving any time soon.

One step away from renewal

Real Madrid are happy with Courtois’ performances. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

According to Diario AS, Real Madrid are only one step away from renewing the contract of Courtois this season.

Los Blancos are nearing an agreement with the Belgian international over a new deal until the summer of 2028, effectively translating into a one-year extension.

This is the formula Real Madrid follow for older players, giving them one-year contracts until they are deemed not good enough to play for the club.

In the case of Courtois, Real Madrid believe he has done more than enough to earn a new contract.

At 34, the former Chelsea star is still one of the best goalkeepers in the world and has been an important custodian for the team’s success.

A different strategy for Courtois

Courtois is a key leader in the Real Madrid team. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

What is particularly striking is that Real Madrid are not willing to wait until the end of the season to evaluate whether or not Courtois can continue at the Bernabeu.

They want to renew the contract of the Belgian as soon as possible, thereby negating the possibility of him speaking to other clubs.

This is a far cry from the strategy Real Madrid applied to the likes of Modric, Carvajal, Nacho or even Lucas Vazquez.

The club waited until the last minute to make a decision, with the players ultimately ending up leaving the club. That won’t happen with Courtois, who is expected to continue at the Bernabeu.