Real Madrid identify 21-year-old French star as potential Thibaut Courtois successor – report

Real Madrid identify 21-year-old French star as potential Thibaut Courtois successor – report Real Madrid have reportedly identified Toulouse goalkeeper Guillaume Restes as a potential long-term successor to Thibaut Courtois, despite moving closer to securing the Belgian’s future at the Santiago Bernabeu. According to Bernabeu Digital , the Spanish giants have begun exploring goalkeeping options in the transfer market, with the 21-year-old Frenchman among the names on their shortlist.  Real Madrid could consider a move for Restes as early as next summer, with his market value estimated at around €19 million. The interest comes as Real Madrid work towards extending Courtois’ contract.  As reported before, the Belgian goalkeeper’s current deal expires in 2027, but the club has reached a verbal agreement with him over an extension that would keep him at the Bernabeu for the 2027/28 season. Why Real Madrid are monitoring Guillaume Restes Real Madrid are keeping tabs on Guillaume Restes of Toulouse. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images) Restes has emerged as a potential option for Real Madrid as they assess their long-term goalkeeping plans.  The Frenchman has featured in every match for Toulouse this season and is regarded as one of the most promising young goalkeepers in French football. At 21, he represents a younger alternative for a club looking to plan beyond its established first-choice goalkeeper.  Furthermore, his reported €19 million valuation could also make him a relatively affordable option compared with the cost of signing an established goalkeeper. However, the interest does not mean Real Madrid have decided to replace Courtois.  Courtois is set to sign a new contract with Real Madrid. (Photo by Tullio M. Puglia/Getty Images) Rather, Restes is currently understood to be one of several options being considered as the club evaluates its future requirements. Courtois closes in on Real Madrid contract extension Courtois remains central to Real Madrid’s immediate plans, with the club reportedly reaching an agreement in principle with the Belgian over a contract extension. Both parties have reached a verbal agreement, and the new deal is expected to be signed soon.  The extension would take Courtois beyond his current contract, which expires in 2027, and keep him at the Santiago Bernabeu for the 2027/28 campaign.