CHELSEA have reportedly earmarked Atletico Madrid keeper Jan Oblak as Thibaut Courtois’ replacement – who looks set to join Real Madrid.
The Belgian stopper has been linked with a move to the Bernabeu for a number of years after a series of hints.
Courtois’ family still live in Madrid and he has revealed in the past he is still very much in love with the city.
It stems from his three-year stint in the Spanish capital when he was at loan to Atletico.
With his contract up next summer, Chelsea must decide to cut their losses and sell but a replacement is needed first.
And reports in Spain have suggested that they may raid his temporary club to sign his replacement.
Oblak himself was the replacement of Courtois at Atletico after the former Genk ace returned to Stamford Bridge.
And Mundo Deportivo are reporting that history is about to repeat itself with the Blues ready to splash out £89m on the Slovenian to trigger his release clause.
Courtois has gone AWOL as he looks to force a move to Real and a number of replacements have been drafted.
Jack Butland is high on the list, whilst there have also been links to Kasper Schmeichel, Keylor Navas and Jordan Pickford.
And whilst Courtois’ time at the club looks to be up, there is good news surrounding two more star players.
Eden Hazard and Willian look set to stay in west London despite rumours stating the duo could leave.
Real and Manchester United have been sniffing around Hazard and Willian respectively, but Maurizio Sarri will be able to count on their services this season.