Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has dismissed speculation linking him with a return to Spain this summer.
According to recent rumours, the Belgian international was a transfer target for Real Madrid, who were expected to move for him if they failed in their bid to sign David de Gea this summer, as reported by Sky Sports.
However, speaking ahead of Belgium’s friendly against Switzerland, Courtois has insisted that he sees his future at Stamford Bridge, with talks with incoming boss Antonio Conte seemingly playing an important role in his decision.
“Yes, I’ve spoken to him,” Courtois told Sky Sports. “We had a good chat.
“Of course. There are rumours from the press always popping up. But I’m calm with it. My season has not been the very best like last year, when when we won the Premier League. But still, I’m very confident in myself that I will have a good Euros and another good season at Chelsea.”
Along with the majority of his teammates, Courtois had a difficult campaign this past year, with the club missing out on European football and seeing Jose Mourinho sacked last December.
However, they will be given fresh impetus this summer with the arrival of Conte after Euro 2016, and the Italian tactician is seemingly keen on keeping the club’s big names for his first season in charge.
The likes of Eden Hazard, Diego Costa and Oscar are all expected to stay on, while John Terry has already signed a new deal.
Add Courtois to the list, and the same core will lead Conte’s revival plans, although he will still be expected to be active in the summer transfer market.
Nevertheless, one position he doesn’t have to worry about now is his number one choice between the posts, with Courtois confirming that he will be in west London next season.