Real Madrid transfers: Why Thibaut Courtois' succession is in news as Kobel vs Verbruggen debate starts

Gregor Kobel of Borussia Dortmund could become Real Madrid "numero uno" Thibaut Courtois' deputy, as the Spanish giants have started the hunt to find the big Belgian's successor, a report claimed. The 28-year-old Swiss goalkeeper, who arrived at Signal Iduna Park from Stuttgart in 2021, is contracted until 2028.

At 33, Courtois is far from finished and has been coming up with sensational performances week after week. His current deal in the Spanish capital is valid until June 2027, and the club's effort to extend it didn't take flight due to a lack of interest on Courtois's end, a report said. While Kobel is the frontrunner, Brighton's Dutch shot-stopper Bart Verbruggen is also being actively monitored by the Spanish team, reports said. Interestingly, both of them are tall and known for their reflexes rather than ball distribution — a profile matching that of a prime Thibaut.

If Verbruggen arrives at Madrid, it could be a long-term project as he is only 23 years old. As things stand, there is no need for Madrid to look beyond Courtois, and the Premier League star's arrival could safeguard the Belgian's place in the club for another year or two. Kobel's arrival, meanwhile, could signal competition for Courtois, if not his ouster. Los Blancos do not want to rush into anything and prefer to wait and see how things develop, particularly regarding Courtois's decision and form.

Real Madrid is looking for a custodian with international experience, leadership, and the ability to respond immediately to media pressure, Fichajes said in a report. "Gregor Kobel wouldn't be cheap, as his market value is currently around forty million euros. Real Madrid has historically demonstrated its ability to manage these transitions successfully, as seen previously with legendary figures of the club," the report said.