Chelsea are planning to take on-loan goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois back to Stamford Bridge from Atletico Madrid at the end of this season.
A report in AS claims a final decision will be taken in March, yet the Londoners have already made it clear he must leave the Spanish capital at the end of his current arrangement.
The Belgian international signed for Chelsea in July, 2011 from Racing Genk and was immediately loaned to Atleti, where he has been a resounding hit and was an integral part of the club’s success last term, helping them to the Europa League trophy and European qualification.
Despite penning another loan agreement this term, the 20-year-old’s progress has been such that Chelsea now want him to experience playing in the Premier League, preferably at another London club, so he can get used to living in England.
It is understood Courtois is in no rush to leave the Vicente Calderon and would love to stay longer, but the decision could be taken out of his hands.
Chelsea goalkeeping Coach Christophe Lollichon has been very pleased with Courtois’ performances with Atleti, but now feels he needs to get used to the characteristics of the English game, where he is sure to be tested more in the aerial department.
