Thibaut Courtois denies contacts with Real Madrid to leave Chelsea

Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has assured fans he has never had any contact with either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid regarding a return to La Liga. The Belgium international said that he is happy at Stamford Bridge, and even expects to extend his contract with the Blues in the near future.

The Belgium international's future at West London came under some scrutiny last season following the disappointing campaign of the Blues. Real Madrid were reportedly ready to take advantage of the situation to lure him back to Spain following their unsuccessful attempt to sign Manchester United number one David De Gea.

Courtois himself added then fuel to the speculation after suggesting he would like to return to La Liga when his contract with the Blues expires.

"When I left Spain, I knew that I would return one day," the keeper said. "I have a contract with Chelsea for the next three seasons. In 2018, when I'm in the last year of my contract, I'll evaluate whether it makes more sense to stay or to go."

But much has changed since then as both Courtois and Chelsea have rediscovered their best form under Antonio Conte in the start of the new season. The Belgium has kept five clean-sheets in the last five games and is so happy about the situation that now even considers to sign a new deal at West London.

"At Chelsea everything is going well. It's is a great club. There is no reason not to be happy at Chelsea. You never know what will happen in the future but this doesn't mean that I am not happy here. At the moment I am very well, in a very good atmosphere and that makes me happier at home too," the 24-year-old keeper said to Cope.

"I never said that I wanted to leave Chelsea. I have a contract until 2019. Since I'm two and a half years left (we haven't talk about a renewal). Maybe at the end of the season (we speak) but for now it's okay. At the end of the season we can talk, I guess Chelsea will do it because they trust in me, they see that I am good, that I am helping the team and I believe (that a new contract) is good for them and for me."

Atletico Madrid were also linked with him after he had an impressive impressive three-season loan stint at the Vicente Calderon, helping Diego Simeone's side conquer La Liga ahead of Barcelona and Real Madrid, as well as gaining Europa League and Copa del Rey titles. Yet, Courtois insisted that speculation linking him both the Colchoneros and Real Madrid were just rumours.

"When I went to Madrid I had seen some representatives from Atletico in restaurants but there was never any talk about a possible return to Atletico. Oblak is doing very well and I am happy about that. These are rumours," he said while when asked about Los Blancos reportedly interested in his services he added: "I never had anything with Real Madrid. I did not see anything published (about rumours linking him with Los Blancos) but I never had any contact with Real Madrid."