Real Madrid have reportedly acknowledged that Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is more likely to arrive at the Bernabeu than Manchester United stopper David de Gea.
For a number of years, De Gea has been frequently linked with an eventual return to Spain's capital, where he has previously represented Atletico Madrid, but Real have so far failed to get a deal over the line.
Courtois has openly stated that he would like to return to Madrid at some stage in his career and according to The Independent, Real have acknowledged that they will have a better chance of signing the Belgian international.
The 25-year-old has less than 18 months remaining on his contract at Stamford Bridge and although Chelsea are keen to extend his stay in West London, a new deal has been not agreed.
Earlier this week, Courtois claimed that his 'heart was in Madrid' having made 138 appearances for Atletico in three years at the club between 2011 and 2014.
Darren Plant
